SE5A Replica

Dan McGowan and "Gogi" Goguillot of Yarrow, B.C. designed this 7/8 scale replica of the famous World War 1 British Fighter built by the Royal Aircraft Factory. While changes had to be made to accommodate a full size pilot, and an alternate engine chosen when designing the scaled down version as an amateur built sport plane, the replica does resemble the original. It is represented as a much modified, scaled down sport plane, and not a true replica of the original fighter.

Use of a modern 4 cylinder 85 hp Continental engine required an ingenious cowling to simulate the original water cooled 200 hp geared Hispano engine, but provides a practical solution for every day operation.

Several genuine examples of the famous SE5A single-seat fighter exist in the U.K. including an airworthy one with a 200 hp geared Hispano replacing the original 215 hp Wolseley W4a Viper 8 cylinder water cooled vee engine.

This airplane was built by Dan McGowan at Richmond, B.C. and was flown regularly since its construction in 1970, and was a regular participant in homebuilt flypasts at airshows. Donated to the Canadian Museum of Flight by Dr. Fred Hemming of Vancouver in 1983.

This aircraft was returned to flying condition by the Canadian Museum of Flight and since 1997 once again participates in airshows.

Technical details:

(Specifications apply to the 7/8 replica, not to the original)

Serial 002, CF-QGL

Manufactured: 1970

Engine: One 85 hp Continental 4-cylinder horizontally opposed

Cruise speed: 90 mph (145 km/h)

Empty weight: 790 lb (358 kg)

Loaded weight: 1,100 lb (499 kg)

Span: 22 ft 10 in (6.9 m)

Length: 14 ft 4 in (4.3 m)

Height: 7 ft 2 in (2.2 m)

By way of comparison, the original SE5A had a span 26 ft 7 in (8.1 m), length 20 ft 11 in (6.4 m), height 9 ft 6 in (2.9 m).

(Photo credits: C. Hutchins)

It's a flyer!

The Museum's SE5A replica returned to the air on 12 July 2016 after a lengthy refit and modification program. The engine and electrical systems have been upgraded to give the aircraft independence from the need for a 'prop swinger' in its previous configuration. In the capable hands of General Manager, Mike Sattler, taxi and high-speed handling checks were conducted. After a complete check of the aircraft, all systems were declared 'Go' and Mike took the SE5A into the air, conducting handling checks and takeoff and landings. A post-flight inspection declared, "No snags, no leaks" and it won't be long before it takes to the air again.

Mike ready to launch the SE5A into the wild blue yonder.
The name pays tribute to long-time Museum member "Gogi" Goguillot.

The SE5A entering its element.

The SE5A drops over the lush scenery of the Fraser Valley as it approaches Langley Airport...

...to a flawless, classic three-pointer landing.

Museum members welcome Mike after the successful test flight.

The SE5A shares the ramp with a visiting Nieuport fighter from Vimy Flight.
How often do you get a reminder of aviation from 100 years ago at the same airport?