Taylorcraft Auster

The Taylorcraft Auster was an observation and reconnaissance aircraft employed by the Royal Air Force during World War II. It was developed and produced in Leicestershire, England, by Taylorcraft Aeroplanes Ltd, under license. Entering service in 1942 as the Mk III, it flew its first sorties in North Africa as artillery spotter.

Several civilian variants had been built before the war, but, with the outbreak of the armed conflict, these were evaluated for the airborne observation role. The Taylorcraft Plus-C was selected for production under the military designation Auster Mk I. After several test flights, the British officers saw the convenience and suitability of having such an aircraft to carry out reconnaissance and observation missions. Thus, it was furthered developed into the Mk II and III, which was equipped with a 130-HP Gipsy Major engine.

The next major production variants were the Taylorshaft Auster Mk IV and V. Their powerplants had been improved as they were fitted with an American Lycoming O-290-3 engine. It also features a larger cabin for a crew of 3. A total of 1,630 aircraft would be produced. Thus, the Auster series turned out to be an invaluable liaison aircraft, providing excellent service in North Africa and, later in the war, in Italy and Northern Europe.

Technical Characteristics

The Taylorshaft Auster was a single-engine monplane. It had a high-mounted-wing. Having the wing over the cabin gave the pilot an excellent view of the ground. It also provided the aircraft tremendous lift. The fuselage consisted of metal tube frame with plywood and canvas. It had fixed landing gear, with large wheels and tires.

The high-set wing was fitted with wide trailing edge flaps and ailerons, allowing for an extremely low speed. This was particularly useful when enemy targets on the ground needed to be observed and recorded. The aircraft tail had a large rudder, which allowed the Auster exceptionally turning ability.

Specifications (Mk V)

Type: liaison/reconnaissance aircraft

Length: 6.83 m (22 ft, 5 in)

Wingspan: 10.97 m (36 ft)

Wing Area: 15.51 square meters (167 sq. ft.)

Height: 2.44 m (8 ft)

Maximum Speed: 209 km/h (130 mph)

Range: 402 km (250 miles)

Below, the Taylorcraft  Auster Mk II in 1941.

The Mk IV variant at military airbase in 1944.