From the “Looks are Deceiving” Dept.

Loening Model 23 of the New York – Newport Air Service.

Army Air Service S-1 (24-1) seen at Langley Field in the mid-20s.

The Loening Model 23/S-1 of the early 1920s is a testament that one cannot judge an aircraft solely by its appearance. Yes, the Model 23 looked somewhat ungainly in its design. Yes, it looked far more hydrodynamic than aerodynamic (This outward form would explain the origins of the Model 23’s official name:  “The Flying Yacht”). 

But, as they say in the Looks are Deceiving Dept…

In actuality, the awkward-appearing “Flying Yacht”, was an amazingly efficient airplane. First taking to the sky in 1921, Loening’s bird won multiple awards for its design – including the Collier Trophy. It also set world records for speed, distance, and altitude. To top it off, the Model 23 was one of the first monoplane-configured seaplanes to go into production. 

Loening’s “Flying Yacht” was quickly eclipsed by the rapid advances in 1920s aviation, but for a brief shining moment, it was unquestionably among the top seaplanes in the world.