Morane-Saulnier
Morane-Saulnier BB
The Morane‑Saulnier BB was a two‑seat, single‑engine trainer and reconnaissance aircraft produced by the French firm Morane‑Saulnier during the latter stages of World War I. First flown in early 1917, the BB was developed from the earlier Morane‑Saulnier AR and L series, incorporating a more powerful 110 hp Le Rhône rotary engine and a redesigned, slightly larger airframe to accommodate a second cockpit for an instructor or observer. Its wood‑and‑fabric construction featured a conventional biplane layout with equal‑span wings, a fixed tailskid undercarriage, and a simple open cockpit arrangement that provided excellent visibility for both crew members. The aircraft’s modest dimensions and forgiving handling made it ideal for pilot instruction, while its stability and modest payload capacity allowed it to perform short‑range reconnaissance and artillery‑spotting duties on the Western Front. Although produced in relatively limited numbers—approximately 300 units—the BB played a crucial role in training the large numbers of pilots required for France’s expanding air service. Its straightforward design also influenced post‑war trainer development, cementing Morane‑Saulnier’s reputation as a versatile manufacturer in early aviation history.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 1915