Sh-1, V.B.Shavrov and V.L.Korvin

28k b/w photo "History of aircraft construction in the USSR", Vol.1 p.406

Three-seater sesquiplane flying boat of unique layout. Aircraft had no struts between wings, lower wing was integrated with balance floats. Landing gear could be raised for water surface operations.

Another interest aspect of Sh-1 story: It was a homebuilt aircraft! V.B.Shavrov, V.L.Korvin and mechanic N.N.Funtikov manufactured all parts in the city apartment. Aircraft was assembled at one of Leningrad airfields.

First taxi on water was carried out on June 4, 1929 (L.I.Giksa). After minor modifications (floats shape) aircraft was flown on June 21. During one week (July 1-8) pilot B.V.Glagolev fulfilled trials program in harsh weather conditions (wind up to 7.5m/sec and waves up to 0.6m).

After those trials landing gear and tail skid were installed. Few dozens of flights were performed as an amphibian - landings and takeoffs were performed on the ground airfield and water surface. For State Trials Sh-1 was flown from Leningrad to Moscow Central (Khodynka) Airfield.

During September 20-28, 1929 aircraft was carried through complete trials program (pilots B.V.Glagolev, M.A.Korovkin, A.V.Chekarev). Conclusions was that with its 85hp engine Sh-1 may serve only for sport/training goals. It was also noted that proper engine cowling could improve the performance.

Sh-1 was transferred to Leningrad Osoaviakhim for propaganda flights. On February 26, 1930 it was crashed by V.P.Chkalov, who hit the railroad signal pole while flying along the October Railroad (Moscow-Leningrad) in heavy snowstorm/icing conditions. Pilot and mechanic Ivanov were unharmed, but aircraft was found unrepairable.

Drawing (of Sh-2...) used for this page background exists at Sh-1/Sh-2 at Virtual Aircraft Museum

Predecessors	Modifications
None	Sh-2

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References	Links
"History of aircraft construction in the USSR", Vol.1 p.406-407;	Sh-1 at Virtual Aircraft Museum Sh-1, Shavrov