Boeing XP-15 - Operational History

Operational History

The XP-15 first flew in January 1930, where it was discovered that the vertical stabilizer (a P-12C type) needed to be larger in order to compensate for the single wing. Initial testing showed a top speed to 178 mph, but with enlarged tail surfaces and a Townend cowling, it recorded 190 mph at 8,000 ft. The aircraft performed poorly, with a poor rate of climb and a high landing speed. The USAAC did not order the aircraft for production and on 7 February 1931, the prototype was destroyed when a propeller blade failed and the engine tore loose from its mounts.

The Navy was offered the similar Model 205. It first flew in February 1930. It was ordered by the US Navy, but by the time flight testing was complete in 1932, other aircraft were ordered instead. It was however, the first monoplane to receive a US Navy designation, XF5B.