Short Brothers Short S.36

Image: Wikimedia Commons

The Short S.36, which first flew in 1912, represents the earliest motor-powered aircraft from Short Brothers. This sports aircraft and trainer measures 10.8 meters long with a 14.1-meter wingspan, powered by a single engine achieving 96.6 km/h. The S.36 reflects the fundamental aviation principles of the pioneer era, when aircraft performance parameters remained modest by later standards. Its historical significance lies in documenting Short Brothers' foundational work during aviation's earliest decades, establishing manufacturing expertise that would mature through the twentieth century.