Monoplane by V.N.Khioni

52k b/w photo "History of aircraft construction in the USSR", Vol.1 p.111;

Two-seater monoplane (pilot seated behind the observer/passenger) with fuselage of circular cross-section. Front of the fuselage was partially covered by plywood. The tail section was made of four spars and numerous tiled specially shaped ribs, covered with fabric.

Wings were covered with fabric. Aircraft carried no tailfin, just a small rudder.

Presented on the 1912 Aircraft Contest, this airplane failed to win a prize. Two shortcomings plaqued the aircraft:

• Nominal 'Gnome' engine power of 100hp was never achieved, only 80hp were 'up to grabs'.
• Wide spread error of the historic period may be seen at the picture - a gap left between the wing and the fuselage. It substantially increases drag and lowers wing efficiency. Improved crew sight does not worth it.

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References:
• "History of aircraft construction in the USSR", Vol.1 p.111;