W.Green, G.Swanborough The Complete Book of Fighters

COURTOIS-SUFFIT-LESCOP C.S.L.1 France

   Designed by Roger Courtois-Suffit in collaboration with Capitaine Lescop, the C.S.L.1 single-seat fighter was flown for the first time in January 1918, having been constructed by the SAIB (Societe Anonyme d'Applications Industrielles du Bois) concern. The C.S.L.1 was, significantly, one of the first (if not the first) aircraft to feature leading-edge wing flaps, these being fitted to the lower mainplanes and elevated or depressed through a limited range of movement. The leading edge of the tailplane was also hinged. Intended for the 200 hp Clerget 11E eleven-cylinder rotary or, failing that, the 160 hp Gnome Monosoupape 9Nc nine-cylinder rotary, the C.S.L.1 was in fact fitted with the 140 hp Clerget 9Bf nine-cylinder rotary. A second prototype was to have been fitted with the 200 hp unit, but it is doubtful if this was completed. The following data are estimated for the C.S.L.1 with the 200 hp engine.

Max speed, 149 mph (240 km/h) at sea level.
Time to 13,125 ft (4 000 m), 14 min.
Endurance, 2.5 hrs.
Empty weight, 1,080 lb (490 kg).
Loaded weight, 1,720 lb (780 kg).
Span, 25 ft 7 in (7,80 m).
Wing area 204.5 sq ft (19,0 m2).