Gotha B types

The Gotha B types of the Gothaer Waggonfabrik were two-seat reconnaissance/trainer aircraft of the German [Air Force] in the First World War.

Development

In 1914 Gotha developed a biplane with 120 hp Inline [engine (aeronautics)|inline engine], which received the factory designation LD.7 and was classified by Idflieg as Gotha B.I.
The B.II differed significantly from the B.I: The wings were larger, the fuselage shorter and a rotary engine was installed. The B.II was similar to an earlier concept, the Gotha LD.1 two-seater, which was powered by a Gnome [et Rhône|Gnôme rotary engine] with 100 hp.

Operational history

18 B.Is were delivered and used until 1915 for reconnaissance, then as a trainer aircraft. The B.II, of which 10 were built, was also used as a trainer aircraft.