title: VL Paarma
text: # VL Paarma
  
  VL Paarma (English: Gadfly) was a Finnish biplane, two-seat trainer aircraft, designed by the State Aircraft Factory (Valtion Lentokonetehdas) for use with the Finnish Air Force.
  
  ## Design and development
  
  A prototype was constructed in 1930–31 and made its maiden flight on 20 March 1931. The aircraft was, however, under-powered, and the flight characteristics were poor. Suggestions for improvements were made and the engine was replaced by a higher-powered one. The aircraft was damaged in 1933, but was never repaired.
  
  ## Specifications (Paarma)
  
  Data from Albatrosista Pilatukseen. Tikkakoski: Keski-Suomen ilmailumuseo
  
  General characteristics
  
  * Crew: 2
  * Length: 7.9 m (25 ft 11 in)
  * Wingspan: 10.5 m (34 ft 5 in)
  * Height: 2.8 m (9 ft 2 in)
  * Max takeoff weight: 960 kg (2,116 lb)
  * Powerplant: 1 × Siemens-Halske Sh 12 9-cylinder, air-cooled, radial engine, 89 kW (120 hp)
  * Propellers: 2-bladed wooden fixed-pitch propeller
  
  Performance
  
  * Maximum speed: 135 km/h (84 mph, 73 kn)
  * Service ceiling: 3,000 m (9,800 ft)
  