Skip over navigation

SPAD VII

The French SPAD was a success from its introduction. Early versions climbed slowly, but a more powerful engine and increased wing-area improved performance in the subsequent SPAD VII. SPADs serving in the air forces of Belgium, Britain, Italy, and Russia were built in Britain and Russia. SPADs also went to the United States, Peru, Portugal, Brazil, Greece, Rumania, Siam (now Thailand), and Yugoslavia. SPAD VII production totalled 3 825 aircraft, with many continuing to fly well after First World War.

The SPAD was the aircraft flown by nearly all the French aces. Its strength and thin wings resulted in good diving ability which French pilots used to advantage in their fighting style. Relatively poor results achieved by SPAD VIIs in British hands may have been due to a mismatch between the aircraft’s flying characteristics and the close-combat aerobatic tactics favoured by the Royal Flying Corps. A Canadian, Major A.D. Carter, was the highest scoring Royal Flying Corps SPAD pilot with twelve victories in this type.

Museum Example

The Museum specimen was built in England in 1917. Its British service history is unknown, but in 1918 it was sent for air service in the United States. After a number of owners and rebuilds, this aircraft was displayed and flown at the United States Air Force Museum in 1964–65. In 1965 it was purchased by the Canada Aviation Museum. The aircraft has been restored so often that little of the original woodwork remains.

Specifications

Wing Span:
7.8 m (25 ft 7 7/8 in)
Length:
6.1 m (20 ft)
Height:
2.3 m (7 ft 6 1/2 in)
Weight, Empty:
500 kg (1,102 lb)
Weight, Gross:
705 kg (1,554 lb)
Cruising Speed:
Unknown
Max Speed:
193 km/h (120 mph)
Rate of Climb:
2,000 m (6,560 ft) / 4.7 min
Service Ceiling:
6,550 m (21,500 ft)
Range:
1.5 hours (Endurance)
Power Plant:
one Hispano Suiza 8Ab, 180 hp, V-8 engine

Additional Photographs

The Canada Aviation Museum’s Image Bank contains additional photographs of this aircraft. Images are provided for non-commercial study or research purposes only and may not be reproduced or published without the prior consent of the Canada Aviation Museum.

Find out more about our Image bank here.