The
OA-1 was an innovative amphibian seaplane that merged the
fuselage and hull into a single structure eliminating the hanging
floats. The main landing gear could be swung clear of the
waterline. First flown in 1923, the U.S. Army purchased 45 to
serve in Hawaii and the Philippines. The U.S. Navy purchased
over 100 using the designation OL-1.
Five OA-1s traveled from 22,000 miles on a four
month Pan American Good Will Tour of South America in 1927 visiting
25 Central and South American countries.
Specifications
(OA-1A)
Designations
Type: Observation Amphibian
Engine: one 425 hp (317 kW) Liberty
12 inverted vee piston engine
