SOPWITH
AVIATION
A LEGACY THAT
CHANGED THE SKIES
Pioneering innovation. British engineering. Timeless design.
From the Great War to peacetime and beyond, Sopwith aircraft set new standards and inspired generations of aviators.
SIR THOMAS SOPWITH
1888 – 1989
A VISIONARY. AN INNOVATOR.
A TRUE BRITISH PIONEER.
Founded in 1912 by Sir Thomas Sopwith, the Sopwith Aviation Company quickly became one of Britain’s leading aircraft manufacturers. During the First World War, Sopwith aircraft earned a distinguished reputation for performance, reliability and innovation. From land, sea and air, Sopwith design excellence helped shape the future of aviation.
SOPWITH CAMEL
The most famous of Sopwith fighters. Agile, responsive and deadly in the right hands, the Camel dominated the skies in 1917.
SOPWITH DOVE
A successful post-war touring and military aircraft. Known for its comfort, reliability and versatility in both civil and military roles.
SOPWITH TRI-PLANE
One of the first operational triplanes in the world. A bold and innovative design that showcased Sopwith’s engineering leadership.
SOPWITH SEA PLANE
(BABY)
The Sopwith Baby brought aviation to the water. A pioneering seaplane used for naval training and coastal operations.
1912
Sir Thomas Sopwith founds the Sopwith Aviation Company.
1914 – 1918
Sopwith aircraft play a vital role in the First World War.
1917
The Sopwith Camel becomes one of the most successful fighters of the war.
1919 – 1926
Peacetime innovation continues with the Sopwith Dove and civil aircraft range.
BEYOND
The Sopwith legacy lives on – inspiring aviation, engineering and ambition.
