de Havilland Aircraft Company
De Havilland T.K.2
The De Havilland T.K.2 was a single‑seat, low‑wing monoplane built by the de Havilland Aircraft Company in the early 1930s as a private racing and record‑setting aircraft. Designed by Tiger Moth designer Geoffrey de Havilland Junior (hence the “T.K.” initials), the aircraft first flew on 13 August 1934 and quickly demonstrated its speed potential. Powered by a 130 hp de Havilland Gipsy Major inverted‑air‑cooled inline engine, the T.K.2 featured a sleek wooden fuselage, plywood‑covered wings with a thin laminar‑flow airfoil, and a fixed, spatted undercarriage that minimized drag. Its lightweight construction and clean aerodynamics enabled a top speed of about 210 mph, allowing it to win the 1935 King's Cup Race and to set several British speed records over 100‑km and 500‑km circuits.
Although only two examples were produced, the T.K.2 became a benchmark for the development of high‑performance light aircraft in the interwar period. It showcased de Havilland’s ability to blend racing technology with reliable production methods, influencing later designs such as the DH.85 Leopard Moth and the post‑war DH.85 Chipmunk trainer. The aircraft remains a celebrated example of British ingenuity and the spirit of competition that propelled aviation forward.
Although only two examples were produced, the T.K.2 became a benchmark for the development of high‑performance light aircraft in the interwar period. It showcased de Havilland’s ability to blend racing technology with reliable production methods, influencing later designs such as the DH.85 Leopard Moth and the post‑war DH.85 Chipmunk trainer. The aircraft remains a celebrated example of British ingenuity and the spirit of competition that propelled aviation forward.
Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 1
- First Flight
- 1935
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- de Havilland Aircraft Company
- Developer
- de Havilland Aircraft Company
- Wikidata ID
- Q16988528