Farman MF.7 Longhorn

The Longhorn was used extensively for training purposes, and from 1912 the Maurice Farman-designed M.F.7 served with the French military as well as with many civil and military flying schools in France, Britain and elsewhere in Europe. French squadrons used Longhorns for reconnaissance duties until 1915.

It was an unequal-span biplane usually fitted with a 52kW Renault engine driving a pusher propeller. It was the prominent frontal elevator which led to the nickname "Longhorn".

Next to the French - who used it initially for reconnaissance duties with seven escadrilles and later for training - the best customers were the RFC and RNAS who received a large number from France and others were licence-built in the UK for training duties.

A development of the Longhorn, with the elevator located behind the rudders, was appropriately known as the MF11 “Shorthorn”.

Gallery

Farman MF 7 Longhorn
Engine: 1 x Renault, 51kW / 69 hp or one 100 hp Sunbeam
Max take-off weight: 855 kg / 1885 lb
Empty weight: 580 kg / 1279 lb
Wingspan: 15.5 m / 50 ft 10 in
Length: 11.5 m / 37 ft 9 in
Height: 3.4 m / 11 ft 2 in
Wing area: 60.0 sq.m / 645.83 sq ft
Max. speed: 90 km/h / 56 mph
Crew: 2