Morane-Saulnier MS.315 / MS.317

Developed from the M.S.300 primary trainer prototype of 1930, and its M.S.301 and M.S.302 variants, the Morane-Saulnier M.S.315 flew for the first time in October 1932. Of parasol high-wing configuration, it was of mixed construction with divided main landing gear, powered by a 135hp Salmson 9 Nc engine. Four prototypes were followed by 346 series aircraft for the French Air Force, 33 of them built post-war.

In addition, five higher-powered M.S.315/2 aircraft were built for civil use, plus a single M.S.316 with a Regnier inverted-vee engine. The type became the workhorse of the French Armee de I'Air and served also with the Aeronavale and various civil flying schools. It was a favourite at many pre-war airshows flown by such notables as Thoret, Fleurquin and Detroyat.

Next to the Air Force the Navy operated the M.S.315 as a military trainer and as a glider tug.

Between 1960 and 1962 the type was withdrawn from military use, 40 M.S.315s then in use as civil glider tugs were re-engined with the 220 hp / 164kW war-surplus Continental W-670K radial, being redesignated M.S.317.

About ten MS.317 were still in flying condition in 2008.

Engine: 1 x Salmson 9Nc radial, 101kW
Max take-off weight: 860 kg / 1896 lb
Loaded weight: 548 kg / 1208 lb
Wingspan: 12.00 m / 39 ft 4 in
Length: 7.60 m / 24 ft 11 in
Height: 2.80 m / 9 ft 2 in
Wing area: 21.60 sq.m / 232.50 sq ft
Max. speed: 170 km/h / 106 mph
Ceiling: 5500 m / 18050 ft