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Curtiss Model F
Curtiss Model F
Curtiss Model F
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The Curtiss Models F made up a family of early flying boats developed in the United States in the years leading up to World War I. Widely produced, Model Fs saw service with the United States Navy under the designations C-2 through C-5, later reclassified to AB-2 through AB-5. Several examples were exported to Russia, and the type was built under license in Italy.

Key Information

First successful flight of the Curtiss Flying Fish over Keuka Lake, July 1912.[1]
Marshall Earle Reid at Lake Keuka in his Curtiss seaplane, 1912. Note the step in the hull.
Gustave Maurice Heckscher in his Curtiss seaplane at 60 miles per hour, 1912.

Design and development

[edit]

In configuration, these were biplane flying boats powered by a single engine mounted amongst the interplane struts and driving a pusher propeller. The pilot and a single passenger sat side by side in an open cockpit. The wing cellule was derived from the Model E landplane and was of two-bay, unstaggered, equal-span construction with large ailerons mounted on the interplane struts and extending past the span of the wings themselves. The earliest examples of this design were built and sold by Curtiss in 1912 without any designation applied to them; the Model F name only coming into use the following year. Confusingly, Curtiss also used the designation Model E to refer to some early machines in this family, although these were quite distinct from Curtiss landplanes that bore this same designation and all but identical to the Model Fs.

Model Fs built from 1918 featured a revised, unequal-span wing that incorporated the ailerons into the upper wing and sponsons on the sides of the hull to improve the aircraft's handling in water. These were known as the Model MF (for Modernised-F), and years later as the Seagull in the postwar civil market.

Operational history

[edit]

The US Navy initially purchased four of these aircraft in addition to the Freak Boat (C-1/AB-1) that it had already obtained and which was retrofitted to approximately the same design as the others. One of these, the C-2 became the first aircraft to fly under automatic control on 30 August 1913 when fitted with a gyroscopic stabiliser designed by Elmer Sperry. The same aircraft (by now redesignated AB-2) then became the first aircraft to be launched by catapult from a warship while underway when it took off from USS North Carolina on 5 November 1915, piloted by Captain Henry C. Mustin, Navy Air Pilot No.3, and Naval Aviator No. 11. Her sister, AB-3, became the first US heavier-than-air aircraft to see military action when launched from the USS Mississippi on 25 April 1914 on a scouting mission over Veracruz during the United States Occupation of Veracruz.[2]

The US Navy bought another eight aircraft before the end of 1916, but orders in quantity only came following the type's selection as the Navy's standard flying-boat trainer in April 1917. An initial batch of 144 of the basic F model were ordered, followed by 22 MFs in 1918. Another 80 MFs were produced under license by the Naval Aircraft Factory. This aircraft was especially useful for training because of its favorable stall recovery, while many other aircraft of the era were likely to stall into a spin.[3] A small number of Model Es and Fs were also purchased by the US Army.

The Russian Navy purchased two batches of Model Fs in 1913-14 and operated them as part of the Black Sea and Baltic Sea fleets until replaced by the Model K shortly thereafter. In Italy, the Curtiss representative Enea Bossi secured rights for local license-production of the Type F by the Zari brothers, who built eight examples at their workshop in Bovisa, Milan. The first of these was demonstrated to the Italian Navy on Lake Como on 22 September 1914. The Model F was adopted by Regia Marina on the battleship Dante Alighieri, cruisers Amalfi and San Marco, and the seaplane tender Elba.[4]

Rogers Airlines operated a postwar fleet of ten Curtiss Seagulls as late as 1927. The aircraft flew routes out of Miami and Nassau in the winter months and returned to upstate New York for maintenance and barnstorming in the summer.[5]

Variants

[edit]
Model E
Designation sometime erroneously applied to certain early members of this family.
Model F
Standard production model from 1912 onwards, received this designation 1914, and given numerical designation of Model 7 in 1930.
White & Thompson 100 hp Curtiss Flying Boat
Improved version of the Model F flown in March 1913 - Curtiss inter-wing ailerons replaced by ailerons on the upper wing trailing edge.
White & Thompson Bass-Curtiss Airboat
Major reconstruction of a Model F fitted with an Anzani engine in June 1914.
Sperry-Curtiss
Amphibious version of Model E for Lawrence Sperry.
School Machine
Trainer with nose boarding ramp.
Sport Boat
Three-seat deluxe version.
Reid Hydroaeroplane
Custom version for Marshall Reid with shoulder-yoke aileron controls.
Model FL
Model F fitted with wings from Curtiss Model L. Single example, also designated Model 7 built 1917.[6]
Model BAT
Tractor-engined prototype for MF, later designated Model 13 in Curtiss sequence.
Model BAP
Pusher-engined prototype for MF similar to BAT, later designated Model 14 in Curtiss sequence.
Model MF
Modernised version of 1914, production standard from 1918 onwards, later designated Model 18
Cox-Klemin CK-14
Model MFs rebuilt and modified to use 180 hp Hispano Suiza engine[7]
Seagull
Postwar civil version of MF with two additional seats, later designated Model 25. Approximately 16 sold.[8]
Crane
Amphibious version of Seagull, later designated Model 20.[9]
Judson Triplane
Enlarged custom triplane version.
McCormick Flying Boat
Enlarged, five-seat custom version for Harold Fowler McCormick.

Operators

[edit]
 Brazil
Kingdom of Italy
New Zealand
Ottoman Empire
Russian Empire
United Kingdom
United States

Surviving aircraft

[edit]
  • The engine and radiator of a Model F are preserved at the Cradle of Aviation Museum on Long Island.[11]
  • Parts of Model F serial number 112, which crashed in Connecticut in 1915, were incorporated into a restoration by Century Aviation in Wenatchee, WA in 2016-2018. The plane took its first flight on Moses Lake in Washington on August 21, 2018.[12]
  • Curtiss MF/ Seagull NC903 (ex C903, US Navy A5541) is on display at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, New Zealand.[13]

Specifications (1917 Model F)

[edit]
Curtiss MF NC903 on display at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in 2017

Data from Curtiss Aircraft 1907–1947[6]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 2
  • Capacity: 1 x stretcher in ambulance conversions
  • Length: 27 ft 9+3⁄4 in (8.48 m)
  • Wingspan: 45 ft 1+3⁄8 in (13.75 m)
  • Height: 11 ft 2+13⁄16 in (3.42 m)
  • Wing area: 387 sq ft (36.0 m2)
  • Airfoil: USA 1[14]
  • Empty weight: 1,860 lb (844 kg)
  • Gross weight: 2,460 lb (1,116 kg)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Curtiss OXX-3 V-8 water-cooled piston engine, 100 hp (75 kW)
  • Propellers: 2-bladed fixed-pitch pusher propeller

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 69 mph (111 km/h, 60 kn)
  • Endurance: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Service ceiling: 4,500 ft (1,400 m)
  • Time to altitude: 2,300 ft (700 m) in 10 minutes

See also

[edit]

Related development

References

[edit]

Bibliography

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Curtiss Model F

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from Grokipedia
The Curtiss Model F was a pioneering family of biplane flying boats developed by the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company in the United States, first flown in 1912 and remaining in service until 1927 as a versatile trainer and patrol aircraft for early naval aviation. Introduced amid rapid advancements in seaplane technology, the Model F evolved from the earlier Model E design, incorporating a distinctive "step" hull that improved hydrodynamic performance for water takeoffs and landings. Powered initially by a 75-horsepower Curtiss O engine in its two-seat pusher configuration, it achieved speeds of up to 55 miles per hour, while later variants upgraded to a 100-horsepower Curtiss OXX-3 engine, boosting performance to 70 miles per hour with an endurance of about 5.5 hours. Over 300 units were produced, of which approximately 150 were for U.S. military use and the remainder exported or for civilian applications, serving not only the U.S. Navy and Army but also the militaries of Great Britain, Brazil, Italy, and Russia, as well as civilian operators in countries including New Zealand, marking it as one of the most widely adopted early flying boats. The Model F played a crucial role in military aviation milestones, including the first installation of a gyroscopic in August 1913 on the C-2 variant, the debut of U.S. military heavier-than-air craft in combat during April 1914 aboard the USS Birmingham, and the inaugural catapult launch from a in November 1915 using the AB-2 from the USS . During , it became the U.S. Navy's standard primary trainer following the American entry into the conflict in , with the also employing it to train its inaugural aviators after duties were authorized by in ; pilots like Norman B. Hall and Third Elmer F. Stone conducted coastal assessments along and using these aircraft. Variants of the Model F included specialized configurations such as stretcher-equipped models for , five-seat passenger versions, and even adaptations, alongside nicknames like "," "Freak Boat," "Tadpole," and "" that reflected its amphibious quirkiness. By 1918, it was gradually supplanted by improved designs like the Curtiss MF, but its contributions to refining flying boat hulls—transitioning from flat-bottomed to V-shaped for better efficiency—laid essential groundwork for subsequent developments in the .

Background and Development

Origins and Initial Design

The Curtiss Model F originated as an evolution from the earlier Model E hydroaeroplane, which featured a configuration mounted on separate floats for water operations. In late 1911 and early 1912, and his team at the in Hammondsport, New York, shifted the design toward a true flying boat by integrating a full hull as the , eliminating the need for external floats and improving hydrodynamic for water takeoffs and landings. This transition addressed limitations in stability and planing observed during hydroaeroplane trials, drawing on Curtiss's prior experience with seaplanes like the 1911 Triad (A-1). The core design of the initial Model F prototypes adopted a layout with unequal-span wings—the upper wing longer than the lower for better lift distribution—and a pusher propeller configuration to keep the propeller clear of water spray. Powered by a single water-cooled Curtiss OX engine rated at 75 to 100 horsepower, the featured an open cockpit accommodating two crew members side by side, a wooden hull constructed from cedar planks for and strength, and fabric-covered wings braced by interplane . This setup emphasized simplicity and versatility for early applications, with the hull's flat-bottomed forward section aiding in water handling. The first prototype achieved its maiden flight on January 12, 1912, piloted by himself over the frozen waters near Hammondsport, New York. Initial testing focused on water operations, including taxiing, planing, and stability during low-speed maneuvers on , where the aircraft demonstrated reliable capabilities despite the rudimentary hull shape. These trials validated the flying boat concept's practicality, with Curtiss logging several short flights to refine control responses and structural integrity under varying wind conditions. Following initial tests in Hammondsport, further development and water trials were conducted in , , in 1912. Hull shaping was a collaborative effort, with overseeing overall design and Henry Kleckler, a skilled boatbuilder and Curtiss foreman, contributing to the planing surface refinements, such as testing a stepped underside to reduce water resistance during acceleration.

Production Evolution and Improvements

Production of the Curtiss Model F began on a small scale in 1912, with the U.S. Navy ordering four initial units (designated C-2 through C-5, later redesignated AB-2 through AB-5) for evaluation as flying boat trainers. By 1916, eight additional aircraft had been delivered, but wartime demands following U.S. entry into in 1917 prompted significant expansion, leading to an order for 144 Model F trainers that year. This scaling reflected the aircraft's selection as the Navy's standard trainer in April 1917, enabling to meet the urgent need for pilot instruction amid global conflict. Key design improvements enhanced the Model F's performance and reliability during this period. In 1913, the introduction of the 100 hp Curtiss OXX-3 V-8 water-cooled engine replaced earlier powerplants, providing greater thrust for improved speed and endurance, with the aircraft achieving up to 69 mph and 5.5 hours of flight time. Subsequent modifications included revised wing bracing with unequal-span biplane configuration and ailerons integrated into the upper wing trailing edge by 1918 in the Model MF variant, which boosted lift and handling stability. Aluminum engine cowlings were also adopted to reduce weight, contributing to overall efficiency without compromising structural integrity. Manufacturing processes at the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company's , factory emphasized hand-built construction, with wooden fuselages crafted from varnished lumber and fabric surfaces doped for tautness and weather resistance. To address challenges in saltwater environments, these materials were treated with protective varnishes and dopes, ensuring durability for naval operations. Subcontracting supported scaling, and licensed assembly of 80 Model MF flying boats at the by 1918, bringing total output to 22 MF units from Curtiss plus these, for a combined F/MF production exceeding 246 airframes. adaptations incorporated bomb racks capable of carrying up to 230-pound ordnance and mounts for Lewis machine guns, transforming the trainer into a versatile patrol platform. These production efforts had substantial economic ramifications, with wartime contracts valued at over $6 million awarded to , fueling its expansion into one of the largest aviation suppliers globally by 1918 and including exports to nations like and . Overall, more than 300 units were produced across variants, incorporating these iterative enhancements to support Allied war efforts.

Operational History

US Navy Adoption and Training

The U.S. Navy began integrating the into its program in , procuring the early flying boats for evaluation and operational testing at the Camp in . These initial aircraft, designated as hydroaeroplanes AH-19 through AH-22, were employed to assess the potential of seaplanes for naval and , marking a pivotal step in the development of shipboard capabilities. A key milestone in the Navy's adoption occurred with the establishment of the first permanent at , in 1914, which served as the primary hub for training. The Model F's , with the propeller mounted behind the crew, facilitated safe water landings and takeoffs, making it ideal for instructing pilots in maritime operations. By 1916, the aircraft had become the Navy's standard trainer, with programs at Pensacola and other sites qualifying dozens of aviators in handling and navigation. The U.S. also adopted the Model F following congressional authorization of aviation duties in 1916, using it to train its first aviators. Pilots such as Norman B. Hall and Third Lieutenant Elmer F. Stone conducted coastal assessments along and . Foundational experiments with the Model F advanced integration, including the first launch on April 26, 1915, from a stationary coal barge in Pensacola Bay by Lieutenant Patrick N. L. Bellinger in an AB-2 variant. This was followed by the historic first underway shipboard launch on November 5, 1915, from the USS , executed by Henry C. Mustin in another AB-2 Model F. These tests demonstrated the aircraft's viability for battleship-based scouting, enabling rapid deployment from capital ships without relying on calm waters. Procurement of the Model F expanded rapidly amid pre-war preparations, with eight additional units acquired by 1916 to support growing training needs. Under wartime mobilization in 1917, orders escalated to approximately 144 aircraft, bolstering the formation of specialized Naval Air Detachments for coastal patrol and instruction. This surge transformed the Model F into the backbone of early Navy aviation expansion. Operational logistics presented challenges, particularly saltwater corrosion on the wooden hulls and fabric coverings, as well as reliability issues with the Curtiss OX-5 engine in humid marine environments. These factors necessitated regular depot-level overhauls at facilities like the Naval Aircraft Factory in Philadelphia, where aircraft underwent disassembly, treatment, and reassembly to maintain airworthiness.

Combat Roles and International Use

The Curtiss Model F entered combat service on April 24, 1914, during the U.S. occupation of , , when Patrick N. L. Bellinger piloted the AB-3 variant on the first U.S. Navy heavier-than-air reconnaissance mission over the harbor to scout Mexican positions. This flight marked the initial combat use of an American military aircraft, providing critical intelligence on enemy troop movements amid challenging conditions including high winds and limited visibility. Following the U.S. entry into in 1917, Model F flying boats conducted anti-submarine patrols along the East Coast, escorting convoys and spotting submerged threats for coordination with surface vessels while leveraging their range for extended maritime surveillance. These operations, often launched from stations like , contributed to coastal defense efforts against German U-boats, though the aircraft's modest speed and payload limited direct engagements. Internationally, the acquired batches of Model F flying boats in 1913–1914, deploying them for reconnaissance and patrol duties in the Baltic and Seas as part of early wartime operations. The ordered three customized Model Fs in 1913, which entered service for patrols upon Italy's 1915 entry into the war, supporting anti-submarine and scouting missions from battleships like the . Similarly, the purchased one Model F in 1914 following demonstrations in , employing it for reconnaissance over coastal waters during the initial phases of . A significant milestone in the Model F's military application occurred on August 30, 1913, when demonstrated the world's first autopilot-assisted flight using a C-2 variant equipped with Elmer Sperry's gyroscopic stabilizer system, enabling hands-off control during a flight over . This innovation, tested under U.S. observation, foreshadowed automated navigation aids for future and roles.

Civilian and Commercial Applications

Following , numerous Curtiss Model F variants, particularly the MF trainer, entered the civilian market as surplus aircraft, with new units priced at around $1,750 compared to their original $7,500 cost. The postwar civil version, known as the Seagull or Model 18, featured modifications including two additional seats for a total capacity of up to four passengers in an enclosed cabin, enabling conversions for passenger transport and other commercial roles. Approximately 16 Seagulls were produced and sold to private owners and operators, capitalizing on the anticipated boom in civil usage along waterways and coastal areas. Commercial operations highlighted the Seagull's versatility in early airline services, with Rogers Airlines maintaining a fleet of ten for mail and passenger routes primarily between Miami, , and , during winter months from the early 1920s until at least 1927. In summer, these relocated to for maintenance and to support secondary revenue through exhibitions. Curtiss Flying Service and similar organizations utilized the type for specialized tasks, including aerial surveys and along coastal regions, leveraging the flying boat's ability to operate from water bases inaccessible to wheeled . Beyond scheduled services, the Model F found widespread use in exploratory and entertainment roles during the , including tours where pilots offered joyrides and demonstrations at airshows and seaside resorts. These operations often involved short passenger hops from beaches at amusement parks, providing affordable public access to flight and promoting enthusiasm; Rogers Airlines' summer activities exemplified this, combining repairs with flights to sustain operations. Safety concerns and economic factors limited the type's longevity in civilian hands, with incidents such as the May 4, 1921, crash of a Canadian-registered MF Seagull (G-CADL) highlighting vulnerabilities like loss of control in turbulent conditions, contributing to a phase-out by the mid-1920s as more robust designs emerged. Operating costs, while low due to surplus availability, averaged around general early expenses of the era, but structural fatigue from prolonged saltwater exposure and high utilization in commercial flights accelerated retirements. The Model F's civilian applications influenced early U.S. oversight, informing the Department of Commerce's 1926 Air Commerce Act regulations on and water operations through demonstrated needs for and hull integrity standards.

Variants

Standard Military Variants

The baseline Model F, produced from 1912 to 1917, served as the foundational military flying boat with a 90 hp Curtiss OX-2 pusher engine, a length of 27 feet 9.75 inches, and a wing area of 387 square feet. It was employed primarily for pilot training and initial reconnaissance duties by the U.S. Navy, with its simple biplane structure and interchangeable float/landing gear setup enabling versatile amphibious operations. Early versions with 75-90 hp engines achieved about 60 mph, while the 1917 configuration with a 100 hp OXX-3 reached 69 mph. The Model MF, an evolution introduced in 1918, incorporated a 100 hp Curtiss OXX-6 engine, single-bay wing bracing for improved and approximately 10% greater lift efficiency over the baseline, and expanded fuel tanks supporting up to 5.5 hours of endurance. A total of 102 units were constructed for naval service, achieving a top speed of 76.5 mph at and a cruising speed of 68 mph, which enhanced its suitability for patrol and scouting roles. Across these standard military models, performance progressed notably—early Model F versions reached about 60 mph, the 1917 Model F 69 mph, while the MF improved to 76.5 mph—yet all retained modular hull designs with interchangeable floats or wheels for seamless transitions between water and land bases.

Custom and Experimental Variants

The Seagull, a civil version of the Model MF introduced after 1918, accommodated up to four seats and was sold for commercial applications, with approximately 16 units produced. Later designated Model 25, it featured the MF's improved wings and was popular for passenger and utility roles. The Reid Hydroaeroplane, emerged as a bespoke modification of the Model F in 1913, commissioned for Glenn Curtiss's associate Marshall Reid, equipped with tricycle landing gear and a 75 hp Curtiss V-8 pusher engine for enhanced ground handling. This single aircraft participated in exhibition flights, demonstrating the versatility of customized hydroaeroplane configurations. The Judson Triplane, built in late 1916 or early 1917, was an experimental triplane reconfiguration of the Model F, powered by a 150 hp Curtiss V-X engine to evaluate aerodynamic stability in multi-wing designs. Only one such conversion was built. In 1913, the acquired at least three Model F flying boats equipped with 100 hp engines for reconnaissance duties. Testing outcomes from a 1913 Model F prototype included pioneering integration trials, where the aircraft, designated C-2, achieved the first automatic flight on August 30 using Elmer Sperry's gyroscopic stabilizer, paving the way for advanced control systems in .

Operators

Military Operators

The was the largest operator of the Curtiss Model F, procuring the type from onward as its standard primary training flying boat under designations C-2 through C-5 (later reclassified AB-2 through AB-5). Over 144 units were acquired following U.S. entry into in April 1917, in addition to earlier purchases including 15 ordered in autumn 1916, for a total of approximately 170 aircraft in the Model F family; these served primarily for pilot training at stations in , and , , as well as coastal patrols and experimental roles such as ambulance conversions with stretcher fittings, before retirement by 1922. The used the 1913 Model F for training purposes in early aviation experiments. The Royal Navy of received limited numbers of Model F aircraft, with some operated by constructors like White and Thompson for evaluation and coastal roles. The acquired an unspecified number of Model F aircraft through two direct purchase batches in 1913–1914, including six initial units in early and a second batch delivered in March 1914 with modified double-concave hulls; these standard variants were employed for duties with the until operational losses during the 1917 Revolution. The Italian purchased three custom Model F units in 1913, tailored with unique hull specifications for warship compatibility, and subsequently license-built eight more through the company at Bovisio; the aircraft supported anti-submarine patrols in the from battleships like the and cruisers such as and , with two lost in combat by 1916. The imported one Model F aircraft in 1914 via neutral export following demonstrations in , assigning it to the newly formed flying service at for Black Sea patrols during ; it was captured by Russian forces in 1915. A precursor organization to the obtained one Model F in 1917 for coastal defense operations, which saw limited service before postwar scrapping. The Brazilian acquired seven Model F units through direct purchases—three in 1916 and four in 1918—plus one license-built example at the Navy School; these supported riverine patrols along the Amazon, with the last operational flight recorded in 1925. were generally obtained via direct commercial purchases from the or precursors to wartime aid programs like , alongside neutral exports and limited production for select operators.

Civilian Operators

Following the demobilization of military forces after , surplus Curtiss Model F flying boats entered the civilian market, where they were acquired by private companies and individuals for activities. In the United States, Rogers Airlines operated ten surplus Model MF variants from 1920 until at least 1927, primarily for passenger transport and mail delivery between and Nassau, with summer operations in New York for and repairs. Curtiss Flying Service, the civilian subsidiary of the , maintained a fleet of Model F aircraft in the for tasks including aerial and barnstorming exhibitions, with primary bases in , and Miami, Florida. In , surplus Model F flying boats were used for timber scouting operations over the forests of in the early . Surplus Model F aircraft were registered to individual owners for exhibition flights and promotional tours in the early . Regulatory oversight by precursors to the , including inspections by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Aeronautics Branch, ultimately led to the grounding of unmodified Model F hulls by 1925 due to metal fatigue and safety concerns identified in routine airworthiness checks.

Preservation and Legacy

Surviving Aircraft

Few original Curtiss Model F airframes survive today, with at least four major authenticated examples documented through historical records and authorities. These include complete or substantially restored and significant components, verified by serial numbers, construction logs, and FAA certification processes for airworthy restorations. Prior to 2018, no original Model F airframes were considered airworthy due to deterioration over a century of exposure. The most prominent survivor is serial number 112, a 1914 Model F that crashed in in 1915. Surviving parts from this aircraft, including structural elements, were incorporated into a comprehensive restoration by Century Aviation in , beginning in late 2016. The project utilized original blueprints, period photographs, and authentic materials such as spruce for the hull to recreate the flying boat configuration. The restored aircraft achieved its first post-restoration flight on August 21, 2018, at , during events associated with . It is on display at the in , maintained as the sole airworthy example of its kind. A complete of the Model MF variant, known as and registered as NC903 (formerly U.S. A-611), is preserved on static display at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre in . This example features an intact hull, wings, and original V-8 engine, retaining much of its period configuration from post-World War I civilian service. Its authenticity is confirmed by construction number records and exhibition documentation. Another surviving example is a 1920s Curtiss MF Seagull (Model 18), originally named "Eleanor III" and used in the 1924-25 South American expedition by Dr. Alexander Hamilton-Rice. Restored in 1974, this original airframe was donated to the in after the expedition and later acquired by the in 1968. As of 2023, it was transferred to the Montreal Aviation Museum due to space constraints at its previous location. Preservation of these artifacts faces ongoing challenges typical of wood-and-fabric from the era, including vulnerability to wood rot from moisture exposure and degradation of doped fabric coverings. Climate-controlled storage and periodic conservation treatments are essential to prevent further deterioration, as evidenced in restoration efforts that addressed and structural weakening.

Replicas and Modern Restorations

In the postwar era, efforts to recreate the Curtiss Model F have focused on preserving its pioneering flying boat design for educational and demonstrative purposes. The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport, New York, houses a full-scale replica of a 1914 Model F flying boat, constructed using historical blueprints and materials faithful to the original specifications. Completed in 2007, this static display aircraft incorporates elements of early pusher configurations and was briefly flyable, with its last recorded flight occurring over in 2018 during a event. A significant modern restoration project was undertaken by Century Aviation in Wenatchee, Washington, beginning in late 2016. This effort revived a 1914 Model F using approximately original proportions, with the hull rebuilt from spruce and mahogany based on period blueprints and photographs, supplemented by recovered components from a historical example. Powered by a restored Curtiss OX-5 engine, the aircraft achieved its first flight in over a century on August 21, 2018, at Moses Lake, marking it as the world's only confirmed flyable Model F as of that date; modern safety enhancements, such as reinforced structural elements, were integrated to ensure airworthiness without altering core design features. These projects highlight the Model F's enduring appeal in aviation heritage, with replicas and restorations primarily serving museum displays and occasional demonstrations rather than routine operations. As of 2025, no additional flyable examples beyond the Century Aviation restoration have been documented, emphasizing the rarity of active recreations.

Specifications

Model F (1917)

The Curtiss Model F, introduced in as a standard production model for the U.S. , served primarily as a and flying boat. This two-bay featured a wooden hull and fabric-covered , with a pusher propeller configuration that positioned the engine above and behind the wing for better and splash protection during operations. It supported a of two—a pilot and an observer—and included provisions for an configuration carrying one patient. Key specifications for the Model F emphasized reliability for coastal patrols and short-range missions, with an empty weight of 1,860 lb (844 kg) and a gross weight of 2,460 lb (1,116 kg). The aircraft measured 27 ft 9¾ in (8.47 m) in length, with a wingspan of 45 ft 1⅜ in (13.75 m), height of 11 ft 2⅞ in (3.42 m), and wing area of 387 sq ft (36 m²). Fuel capacity was 50 US gal (189 L), supplemented by 6 US gal (23 L) of oil, enabling operational endurance suited to its roles.[](Peter M. Bowers, Curtiss Aircraft 1907–1947 (London: Putnam, 1979), p. 132)
CategorySpecification
Powerplant1 × Curtiss OXX-3 V-8 water-cooled inline engine, 100 hp (75 kW),
PerformanceMaximum speed: 69 mph (111 km/h) at
Cruise speed: 55 mph (89 km/h)
Range: 320 mi (515 km)
Endurance: 5 hr 30 min
Service ceiling: 4,500 ft (1,372 m)
: 300 ft/min (1.5 m/s)[](Peter M. Bowers, Curtiss Aircraft 1907–1947 (London: Putnam, 1979), p. 132)
ArmamentProvision for 1 × 0.30 in (7.62 mm) Lewis machine gun for the observer and up to 100 lb (45 kg) of bombs; typical loadout for reconnaissance missions[](Peter M. Bowers, Curtiss Aircraft 1907–1947 (London: Putnam, 1979), p. 133)
This baseline configuration laid the groundwork for minor evolutions in the later Model MF, which incorporated enhanced power for improved range.[](Peter M. Bowers, Curtiss Aircraft 1907–1947 (London: Putnam, 1979), p. 134)

Model MF (1918)

The Curtiss Model MF, developed in 1918 as a modified variant of the earlier Model F, incorporated structural enhancements such as a revised single-bay and added sponsons for improved seaworthiness and stability on water operations. These upgrades addressed limitations in the baseline Model F, enabling better handling during training and patrol missions while maintaining the flying boat's core pusher layout. Designed primarily as a naval trainer with potential for light patrol duties, the MF accommodated a crew of two—typically an instructor and student—though configurations allowed for an additional , supporting up to three personnel for extended operations. Empty weight stood at 1,850 lb, with a gross weight of 2,488 lb, reflecting increased capacity over the lighter predecessor.
CategorySpecification
DimensionsLength: 28 ft 10 in
Wingspan: 49 ft 9 in
Height: 11 ft 7 in
Wing area: 400 sq ft
Powerplant1 × 100 hp Curtiss OXX-6 V-8 (improved cooling); optional 150 hp Hisso A in select examples
PerformanceMaximum speed: 72 mph
Cruise speed: 60 mph
Range: 345–400 mi
Endurance: 6 hr
Service ceiling: 4,100–5,000 ft
: 300–350 ft/min
Armament2 × 0.30 in Lewis machine guns (one dorsal, one ventral)
200 lb bomb load
Fuel & Oil65 US gal fuel; 8 US gal oil
The powerplant, a 100 hp Curtiss OXX-6 V-8 inline with enhanced cooling systems, provided reliable performance for maritime training; some civil conversions adopted the more powerful 150 hp Hisso A for greater versatility. Performance metrics emphasized endurance for long patrols, with a maximum speed of 72 mph at , a cruising speed of 60 mph, and a range extending to 400 miles on internal fuel loads of approximately 65 US gallons, supplemented by 8 US gallons of oil. The service ceiling reached 5,000 ft, supported by a around 350 ft/min, while improved sponsons reduced porpoising and enhanced hydrodynamic efficiency. For defensive and offensive roles, the MF featured two 0.30 in Lewis guns—one flexibly mounted dorsally and one ventrally—along with provisions for a 200 lb bomb load, suitable for anti-submarine training. Enhanced wireless equipment was integrated to facilitate communication during prolonged patrols, marking a key advancement in the variant's operational flexibility over the F.

References

  1. https://sandiegoairandspace.org/collection/item/curtiss-model-f-flying-boat-model
  2. https://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/collier-plaque/nasm_A19730608000
  3. https://www.americanheritagemuseum.org/aircrafts/curtissfboat/
  4. http://aerofiles.com/curtiss-boats.html
  5. https://travelforaircraft.wordpress.com/2019/01/26/the-kiwi-curtiss-model-f-flying-boat-of-yore/
  6. https://www.history.uscg.mil/browse-by-topic/Aviation/Article/3051551/curtiss-f-boat/
  7. https://airandspace.si.edu/collection-objects/curtiss-model-e-flying-boat-hull-only/nasm_A19490022000
  8. https://glennhcurtissmuseum.org/education/who-was-glenn-curtiss/
  9. https://www.syracuse.com/vintage/2017/01/hammondsport_aviation_pioneer.html
  10. https://www.the-leader.com/story/sports/motorsports/2012/09/10/the-birth-flying-boat/44404119007/
  11. https://www.skytamer.com/Curtiss_MF_Seagull.html
  12. https://simanaitissays.com/2019/07/21/curtiss-model-f-a-flying-boat-of-firsts/
  13. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/2020/october/convoluted-success-story
  14. https://www.nytimes.com/1920/09/26/archives/curtiss-company-sold-to-cm-keys-vice-president-of-airplane-concern.html
  15. https://floridawwi.cah.ucf.edu/encyclopedia/floridas-naval-aviation/
  16. https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/communities/naval-aviation/1898-1916.html
  17. https://www.history.navy.mil/content/dam/nhhc/research/publications/1910/Part2.pdf
  18. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/2023/december/coal-barge-cradle-naval-aviation
  19. https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/museums/nmusn/explore/photography/wwi/wwi-aviation/aircraft-us/f-type.html
  20. https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/communities/naval-aviation/1898-1916/reconnaissance-at-veracruz.html
  21. https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1986/april-supplement/eyes-skies
  22. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/mystery-of-the-li-flying-boat-180967113/
  23. https://www.history.navy.mil/our-collections/photography/numerical-list-of-images/nhhc-series/nh-series/NH-100000/NH-100161.html
  24. https://flyingmachines.ru/Site2/Crafts/Craft25880.htm
  25. https://www.academia.edu/40094353/John_D_Cooper_and_His_Demonstration_of_a_Curtiss_Flying_Boat_in_Istanbul_1914_The_First_American_Aircraft_Sold_to_Turkey
  26. https://www.usni.org/magazines/naval-history-magazine/2019/august/early-pilotless-aircraft
  27. https://aeroresourcesinc.com/uploads/197106-1919%2520Curtiss-MF%2520Seagull.pdf
  28. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/1134
  29. https://pdhonline.com/courses/m490/m490handout.pdf
  30. http://www.aviastar.org/air/usa/curtiss_model-f.php
  31. https://aeroresourcesinc.com/uploads/197106-1919%20Curtiss-MF%20Seagull.pdf
  32. https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Curtiss_Model_F
  33. http://www.aerofiles.com/_curt.html
  34. https://flyingmachines.ru/Site2/Crafts/Craft29844.htm
  35. https://www.history.navy.mil/content/dam/nhhc/research/histories/naval-aviation/pdf/History%20(1).pdf
  36. https://www.aia-aerospace.org/wp-content/uploads/the-1919-aircraft-year-book.pdf
  37. https://vintageaviationnews.com/aviation-museum-news/canadian-curtiss-flying-boat-moves-on.html
  38. https://www.aia-aerospace.org/wp-content/uploads/the-1925-aircraft-year-book.pdf
  39. https://www.key.aero/article/unique-curtiss-f-survivor-completed
  40. https://century-aviation.com/essential_grid/1914-curtiss-model-f-flying-boat-2/
  41. https://warbirdtails.wordpress.com/2016/03/25/the-curtiss-story-part-3-first-world-war-flying-boats/
  42. https://www.facebook.com/JohnKuckoDigital/videos/final-flight-update-the-1914-curtiss-model-f-flying-boat-flew-its-last-ever-flig/1678455168933544/
  43. https://aneclecticmind.com/2018/08/23/flying-with-a-1914-curtiss-flying-boat/
  44. https://www.aviastar.org/air/usa/curtiss_model-f.php
  45. https://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_curtiss_model_F.html
  46. https://flyingmachines.ru/Site2/Crafts/Craft29829.htm
  47. https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/museums/nnam/explore/collections/aircraft/m/mf-boat.html
  48. http://www.aerofiles.com/_naf.html
  49. https://new.miamisprings.com/national-naval-aviation-museum-showcases-glenn-curtiss-the-father-of-naval-aviation/
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