Web LetsGoSeeIt.com

Fokker DR.I Triplane

Fokker DR.I Triplane
The Fokker Dr. I Triplane is one of the most famous aircraft in aviation history. The Triplane's indelible association with the "Red Baron", Manfred von Richthofen, the fact that it was flown by practically all of Germany's top aces and leading squadrons during the period 1917-18, plus its unique three wing configuration - all contribute to its fame. Not as well known is the fact that only 320 of these aircraft were built, and they were operational on the Western Front for a period of only about eight months. The aircraft was designed in response to the Sopwith Triplane which was being flown successfully against the Germans in the Spring of 1917. However, by the time the German Triplane, designed by the famous Anthony Fokker was operational, it was already obsolete. Moveover, it experienced construction problems soon after it was built. These problems included the frequent collapse of the top wing which resulted in the death of several top German pilots. In turn, this caused an operational delay of three months. The aircraft was also very slow compared to its counterparts, but its three wing design made it extremely maneuverable and this maneuverability became a major threat to Allied pilots. It was replaced in the Summer of 1918 by the Fokker D.VII Biplane, perhaps the best aircraft of World War I. Manfred von Richthofen, the leading ace of World War I, shot down approximately 20 of his 80 kills flying the Fokker Triplane. The "Red Baron" actually flew four different Triplanes from January through April 1918, each marked in varying degrees of red. His name was forever linked to the aircraft when he was shot down and killed on April 21, 1918, while flying an all red Triplane. The actual circumstances of his death are, to this day, still clouded in controversy.

There are no orignial Triplanes in existence today. The last ones were destoyed by Allied bombing in 1945. Since then several reproductions have been built for the movies and for private pleasure. These aircraft, however, have only been approximations of the original design. The aircraft on display is thought to be the most accurately reconstructed Triplane in existence. It was constructed especially for the Museum with accuracy in mind. It is powered by a very rare 120 h.p. version of the 110 h.p. French Le Rhone Rotary engine. This type of engine with its identical twin, the 110 h.p. Oberursel was used on the original production models. All instruments in the Triplane's cockpit are also original. The aircraft's specifications are virtually identical to the factory's aircraft. Small changes from the original design specifications have been made to allow for modern construction techniques but they are essentially internal and hidden from view. This aircraft is certified to fly. The Museum's Triplane is done in the markings of one of the "Red Barron's" aircraft, "Dr. I 477/18". These markings were chosen because in this Triplane he shot down 10 Allied aircraft, the most for any of his Triplanes. It is not, however, the Triplane in which he was shot down. This aircraft was constructed by Jim Appleby, one of the world's leading builders of antique aircraft. Jim came out of retirement to undertake this historically significant project for the Museum. For the task, he received much assistance from his wife, Zona. The Museum also expresses its appreciation to Dan San Abbott, the recognized authority on WWI German aircraft markings who advised on the color and markings of "Dr. I 477/18".

Fokker DR.I Specifications
Engine: Max Speed: Ceiling: Wingspan (top): Height: Length: Weight: Armament:	110 h.p. Oberursel/Le Rhone 102 m.p.h. @ 13,000 feet 20,000 feet 23' 7" 9' 8" 18' 11" 1,290 lbs (gross) Two 7.92 mm Spandau MG's

Items of Interest...