Nord Aviation
Pingouin
The Nord Pingouin, officially designated N.500, was a French-built variant of the German Bücker Bü 131 Jungmann that emerged after World War II. Developed by Nord Aviation in 1947, the Pingouin was produced to supply the French Air Force and civilian flying clubs with a reliable primary trainer. Over 600 units were manufactured at Nord's Bourges facility between 1948 and 1953, making it one of the most widely used basic trainers in post‑war France.
Key features included a conventional biplane layout, open cockpits for instructor and pupil, and a robust welded steel‑tube fuselage covered with fabric. Power was supplied by a 105‑hp Argus As 10C inverted‑in‑line engine, later replaced in some models by the 115‑hp Renault 4P‑04, giving the aircraft gentle handling characteristics and an excellent rate of climb. The simple mechanical systems, low operating cost, and forgiving flight envelope made the Pingouin ideal for ab initio instruction.
Its significance lies in revitalizing French pilot training after the war, bridging the gap until more modern monoplanes arrived, and cementing Nord Aviation’s reputation for practical, rugged aircraft design. The Pingouin’s legacy endures in many French aeroclubs that still maintain restored examples.
Key features included a conventional biplane layout, open cockpits for instructor and pupil, and a robust welded steel‑tube fuselage covered with fabric. Power was supplied by a 105‑hp Argus As 10C inverted‑in‑line engine, later replaced in some models by the 115‑hp Renault 4P‑04, giving the aircraft gentle handling characteristics and an excellent rate of climb. The simple mechanical systems, low operating cost, and forgiving flight envelope made the Pingouin ideal for ab initio instruction.
Its significance lies in revitalizing French pilot training after the war, bridging the gap until more modern monoplanes arrived, and cementing Nord Aviation’s reputation for practical, rugged aircraft design. The Pingouin’s legacy endures in many French aeroclubs that still maintain restored examples.
