Aircraft identification

[pat geary]

Hi

Can anyone tell me if it possible to identify an aircraft from the number ? I have a photograph (attached) taken in 1916 or 1917 of a crashed plane with the number A3863 visible on its tail. I assume that it is British but have no way of being certain. The photograph may have been taken in the vacinity of the Messines Ridge.

Pat

[John(txic)]

Hi

Can anyone tell me if it possible to identify an aircraft from the number ?

That was the point of painting the number on it.....

From my trusty "British Military Aircraft Serials 1911-1971" by Bruce Robertson: A3832 - A3931 One hundred RE 8, built by D Napier & Sons Ltd, Acton.

Hope this is of help, and a merry Xmas,

John

[centurion]

And the large fin would suggest post March 1917

[PFF]

Try posting on The Aerodrome Forum {Must be registered}

http://www.theaerodrome.com/forum/aircraft/

[Starlight]

Hi Pat,

A3863 was an RE8 from Number 21 squadron - based at La Lovie - and according to "The Sky Their Battlefield" it was shot down on the 11th August 1917 whilst on a photographic mission. Both the pilot (2Lt C E Holoway) and his observer (2Lt P G Harris) were killed in the crash. They left their base at 6:25pm. Ltn T Quandt of JA36 claimed victory for the shooting down of A3863 in combat to the west of Zonnebeke at 7:10pm.

Regards

Steve

[pat geary]

Thanks Everyone. Have a good Christmas.

Pat

[Starlight]

Same to you Pat - welcome to the forum.

Steve