Swan | |
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The Swan at Supermarine's works at Woolston, Southampton | |
Role | Maritime reconnaissance/passenger flying boat |
National origin | United Kingdom |
Manufacturer | Supermarine |
Designer | R. J. Mitchell |
First flight | 25 March 1924 |
Introduction | 1926 |
Retired | 1927 |
Primary users | Imperial Airways Marine Aircraft Experimental Establishment |
Number built | 1 |
Developed into | Supermarine Southampton |
The Supermarine Swan was a 1920s British commercial biplane flying boat designed by R.J. Mitchell. A single machine was built by Supermarine at their works at Woolston, Southampton. The world's first twin-engine amphibian aircraft, it was the precursor to the Supermarine Southampton.
Completed as a wooden aerial reconnaissance flying boat, the Swan first flew on 25 March 1924. It was on display at Woolston during a visit by the Prince of Wales in June 1924. In 1926, it was registered as G-EBJY, having been converted for use as a passenger carrier, and was loaned to Imperial Airways to supplement their commercial fleet. The Swan's accommodation was modified to allow for up 10 passengers. After being used for a passenger service between England and France, the Swan was returned to the Air Ministry in March 1927. It was scrapped the following year.