Sopwith Camel

“Dodge” Bailey, chief pilot of The Shuttleworth Collection

By placing the pilot under the center section of the top wing, the field of view is more restricted than on other biplanes. The upper wing shuts out a lot of sky—hence, the need to leave open areas in the center section to give the pilots some upward view. Being a tail-dragger, the forward view is restricted when on the ground.