DH82

The DH82 Tiger Moth is a British biplane designed by de Havilland Aircraft Company in the early 1930s. It was primarily used as a primary trainer aircraft during World War II, serving extensively in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and other Allied air forces. The Tiger Moth was known for its reliability, ease of handling, and versatility, making it a staple in pilot training programs.

Developed as a successor to the de Havilland DH60 Moth, the DH82 featured a wooden fuselage and wings, a fixed tailwheel undercarriage, and a single radial engine, typically the de Havilland Gipsy Major. Its open cockpit design provided excellent visibility for trainees, while its sturdy construction allowed for both aerobatic training and general aviation use. The aircraft could accommodate two passengers in addition to the pilot, though its primary role was instructional.

During World War II, the Tiger Moth played a crucial role in training thousands of pilots for the RAF and Commonwealth air forces. Its simplicity and robustness made it ideal for basic flight training, and it was also used for glider towing, air-sea rescue, and even light bombing missions in some cases. After the war, many Tiger Moths were sold off to civilian operators, where they continued in use for training, crop dusting, and recreational flying.

The DH82 remains one of the most recognizable training aircraft in aviation history. Its legacy endures through preserved examples in museums and flying clubs worldwide, as well as its influence on later trainer designs. The aircraft’s enduring popularity stems from its historical significance, affordability, and the nostalgic charm of biplane flying. Today, restored Tiger Moths are occasionally seen in airshows and vintage aviation events, celebrating their role in shaping generations of pilots.