De Havilland Dh.87 Hornet Moth

Single Piston

The de Havilland DH.87 Hornet Moth represents one of the most elegant solutions to 1930s private aviation, combining the romance of biplane flight with the comfort of an enclosed cabin. Introduced in 1934 as a successor to the open-cockpit Moth series, the Hornet Moth featured side-by-side seating under a sliding canopy, powered by a 130-horsepower de Havilland Gipsy Major engine. Its fabric-covered wooden construction and graceful lines made it a favourite among wealthy private pilots and flying clubs across Britain and the Commonwealth during the golden age of light aviation. With a cruise speed around 105 knots and a range exceeding 500 miles, the Hornet Moth offered genuine cross-country capability while remaining docile enough for weekend pilots. Production ran until 1938 with approximately 165 aircraft built, many serving with the Royal Air Force during World War II as communications aircraft and trainers. Today the type is prized by vintage aircraft enthusiasts for its historical significance and surprisingly practical performance. The DH.87's low stall speed of 38 knots in landing configuration and benign handling characteristics make it accessible to tailwheel-rated pilots, though its biplane drag limits cruise efficiency compared to contemporary monoplanes. SkyMeter has tracked 3 flights across 1 airframes and 1 operators, with distinct routes observed.