About the MONOCOUPE 90
The Monocoupe 90 is a notable general aviation aircraft, predominantly celebrated for its distinctive design and historical significance in the early era of aviation. Produced by the Monocoupe Corporation, the Monocoupe 90 first took to the skies in the late 1920s. Its creation was driven by the desire to offer a small, high-performance aircraft that was both affordable and reliable for private pilots and small-scale operators.
The Monocoupe 90 quickly garnered attention due to its sleek, monoplane design during a time when biplanes were still prevalent. Its innovative design featured a high-wing, enclosed cockpit, which was relatively unusual for its era. The aircraft was typically powered by a 90 horsepower Lambert R-266 radial engine, which provided it with a commendable performance and efficiency, making it an ideal aircraft for personal use and sport flying.
Key Features and Capabilities
The production of the Monocoupe 90 spanned from the late 1920s through the 1940s, with several variants introduced over the years. These variants included the Monocoupe 90A, 90AF, and 90AL, each offering incremental improvements in performance and design. The aircraft was primarily built in Moline, Illinois, where the Monocoupe Corporation was based.
The Monocoupe 90 filled a critical niche in the aviation market by offering an affordable, reliable, and relatively high-performance aircraft for individual aviators. It was particularly popular among flying enthusiasts and those seeking to own their own aircraft for personal and recreational use. Its performance and design also made it a competitive aircraft in air races and other aviation events of the time.
Market Position and Use Cases
Overall, the Monocoupe 90 is remembered as a pioneering aircraft that contributed to the growth and development of general aviation. Its combination of affordability, innovative design, and competent performance helped pave the way for future developments in private aviation. Even today, restored Monocoupe 90s are cherished by vintage aircraft enthusiasts and collectors, testament to its lasting legacy in aviation history.