G.8

The Fiat G.8, conceived by the Italian manufacturer Fiat Aviazione in the immediate aftermath of World War I, was a two‑seat biplane that quickly became a cornerstone of the Regia Aeronautica’s training and reconnaissance fleet. First flown in 1919, the G.8 evolved from the earlier G.6 model, incorporating a more powerful 200 hp (149 kW) Fiat A.12bis V‑12 engine that delivered a top speed of roughly 185 km/h (115 mph) and a service ceiling of 6 500 m. Its mixed wood‑and‑metal construction provided a balance of strength and lightness, while the staggered wings and generous control surfaces offered excellent stability, making it ideally suited for novice pilots. Armed with a single forward‑firing 7.7 mm machine gun and a rear defensive gun, the aircraft could also perform limited light‑attack and liaison duties, adding to its versatility. Production continued through the early 1920s, with more than 250 units built for Italy and several export customers, including Spain and Argentina. The G.8’s reliability and ease of maintenance helped standardize pilot instruction in Italy, influencing subsequent trainer designs and cementing its role as a pivotal stepping‑stone in the nation’s interwar aviation development.