The Albatros B.II, also known as the L.2, was a German two-seat reconnaissance biplane used during the First World War.
Designed by Robert Thelen as an evolution of the Albatros B.I, the B.II gained international recognition for the aircraft manufacturer.
It featured a shorter wingspan compared to the B.I and was powered by various engines with a maximum output of 89 kW (120 hp).
In 1914, it achieved an altitude record of 4,500 m (14,800 ft).
The seating configuration was not optimal, with the pilot positioned in the rear cockpit and the observer in front over the wings, limiting the downward view due to the protruding engine block.
Albatros later introduced the armed C.I, based on the B-series, with improved seat positions for the observer/gunner to enhance visibility and firing capabilities.
Variants of the B.II included a floatplane version called the W.1 or B.II-W, as well as a specialised trainer model with increased wingspan and different engines known as the B.IIa.
Variants
B.II
Developed from the B.I, the B.II entered production in 1914.
B.IIa
Strengthened airframe, particularly the tail section and 120 hp (89 kW) Mercedes D.II or 120 hp (89 kW) Argus As III engines with radiators moved to the leading edge of the upper centre section.
B.II (Ph) series 23
Production of the B.I in Vienna by Phönix Flugzeug-Werke AG.
B.II (Ph) Series 24
Production of the B.I built in Vienna.
W.1
Seaplane with twin floats and a 150 hp (112 kW) Benz Bz.III engine.
Thulin C / SK-1 / Ö2
Licence-built version by AB Thulinverken Sweden.
Specifications
Crew
Two
Length
7.63 m (25 ft 0.38 in)
Wingspan
12.8 m (42 ft 0 in)
Height
3.15 m (10 ft 4 in)
Wing area
40.12 m2 (431.8 sq ft)
Empty weight
723 kg (1,594 lb)
Gross weight
1,071 kg (2,361 lb)
Powerplant
1 × Mercedes D.II,
89.5 kW (120 hp)
Performance
Maximum speed
120 km/h (75 mph, 65 kn)
Endurance
4 hours
Service ceiling
3,000 m (9,840 ft)
Rate of climb
1.6 m/s (320 ft/min).
Sources German & Austro-Hungarian aircraft manufacturers 1908–1918-T C Treadwell. German Aircraft of the First World War-Peter Gray & Owen Thetford. Flugzeug Publications, Die Deutsche Luftwaffe 1914 – Heute. The World’s Great Bombers: 1914 to the Present Day-C Chant. Windsock Worldwide Vol.25, No.5 – September October 2009. Albatros Aircraft of WWI Vol.1: Early Two-Seaters-Jack Herris. Albatros Aircraft of WWI Vol.2: Late Two-Seaters-Jack Herris. Albatros Aircraft of WWI Vol.3: Bombers, Seaplanes J Types-Jack Herris. Albatros Aircraft of WWI Vol.4: Fighters-Jack Herris.
