Salmson SAL.2 A2

Single-engine two-seat observation aircraft

 

    Up to three Salmson SAL.2 A2 twin seat observation/bomber aircraft have been used briefly by the Belgian Air Service in the period 1918-1921.

    A first machine, abandoned by the French “Aviation Militaire” at Hondschoote (F.) airfield in mid-1918, was made flyable again and while Belgian national markings were applied. The machine was used by Capitaine-Commandant Emmanuel Richard C.O. of N° 4 Squadron also based at Hondschoote. According to famous Belgian Ace Willy Coppens in his book “Jours Envolés”, this particular aircraft was repainted back in French colors and quietly left behind on a French airfield to avoid “inventory problems” by the time of the armistice in November 1918.

    Two more Salmson SAL.2 A2 were noted, sporting Belgian colors, at Evere airbase near Brussels in the 1919-1921 timeframe. One machine having a rather dark camouflage not unlike the Belgian Spad XI recce aircraft, while the other shows a very clear camo resembling that applied to French produced Sopwith 1 1/2 Strutters and also in use with the Belgian Air Service. This last machine seems to show the inscription “SAL 3” on the rudder when lined up during the “Exposition des Avions de Guerre et du Matériel Aéronautique” at Evere between July 19th  and 27th  1919.  Unfortunately, up to now, the ultimate fate of these Salmsons is not known. (Daniel Brackx)