Fast Amphibian

Amphibian planes are not expected to show extraordinary speed. Sleekness usually is sacrificed to seaworthiness and to a design by which engine & propeller are mounted high above the waterline to keep them dry. Also the apparatus for alternating pontoons and landing wheels is heavy, resistant. Hence it was news last week when Alexander P. ("Sasha") de Seversky, Russian War ace, now a major in the U. S. air corps reserve, revealed details of a racing amphibian which he is completing at College Point, L. I.

The de Seversky ship is an all-metal low-wing monoplane mounted on what look like ordinary seaplane floats within which are concealed wheels. By a reverse of usual practice the floats may be retracted to expose the wheels for landing. Also they can serve as skiis for landing on snow. Estimated top speed: 200 m. p. h. with a 400-h. p. Whirlwind: 290 m. p. h. with a 700-h. p. Cyclone (with floats detached and wheels fully retracted). Wing flaps will slow the ship for landing. Major de Seversky, who lost a leg in the War, proposes to enter his "universal" ship in the transcontinental Bendix Trophy race in the National Air Races in July.

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