Curtiss SNC-1 Falcon

The Curtiss SNC‑1 Falcon was a single‑engine, low‑wing monoplane developed by the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company in the early 1930s as a fast trainer and sport aircraft. Conceived in response to the United States Navy’s requirement for a compact, ship‑board scout capable of operating from cruiser decks, the SNC‑1 first flew on 12 March 1933 at the company’s Buffalo, New York plant. Powered by a 420 hp Wright R‑1820 Cyclone radial engine, the Falcon featured an all‑metal stressed‑skin airframe, retractable split‑type landing gear, and a fully enclosed cockpit with dual controls. Its wing employed a NACA 23012 airfoil, giving the aircraft a cruising speed of 210 mph and a service ceiling of 24,000 feet, impressive figures for a light aircraft of its era. Although only a limited production run of fifteen units was completed, the SNC‑1 demonstrated the practicality of integrating naval scouting capabilities into a civilian‑type airframe. Its design innovations—particularly the use of retractable gear and streamlined fuselage—directly influenced later Curtiss models such as the Helldiver and the P‑40 Warhawk. As a bridge between barn‑storming biplanes and the sleek monoplanes of World War II, the Falcon holds a notable place in aviation history.

Curtiss

Curtiss SNC-1 Falcon

Classification

Design & Classification