On Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Volandia Museum in Milan, Italy, the Savoia Marchetti Historical Group unveiled a full-size reproduction of the iconic Savoia-Marchetti S.55X seaplane, famously used by Italo Balbo in his historic transatlantic formation flight. In 1933, Balbo led a fleet of 24 S.55X flying boats from Orbetello, Italy, to Chicago to participate in the Century of Progress International Exposition, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the city’s founding.
Following the unveiling of the partially completed airframe, construction efforts resumed to finalize the 1:1-scale reproduction. A significant milestone in this phase was the completion of the engine nacelle, which now includes a compressed air tank used to start the aircraft’s two Isotta Fraschini Asso 750 engines. This system, powered by a Benelli compressor/generator, mirrors the original engineering of the aircraft.
One of the most intricate aspects of the build was shaping the side panels of the nacelle, which required precision craftsmanship to create the slits and double-curved sections. The half-wings presented another challenge, demanding meticulous adjustments to fit all 390 rib sections. Assembly was carried out without the use of specialized equipment, showcasing the dedication and skill of the restoration team.
For the removable trailing edges, the team adhered to an original Marchetti design that prioritized transportability. The ailerons and elevator which were constructed from welded steel tubing were fabricated by OVS, a company founded by Peppino Villella, a former SIAI employee and highly skilled welder specializing in aeronautical structures. Notably, the left aileron will remain uncovered while the right one will be fully enclosed. Additionally, work is underway on the RA 400 generator, which will be installed on the left side of the central wing section.
This ambitious project began in 2015, marking the centenary of SIAI-Marchetti, with the goal of honoring Italy’s remarkable technological, industrial, and organizational achievements of the era. The completed replica will serve as a lasting tribute to one of the nation’s most significant aviation milestones.
With its distinctive and visionary design, the S.55X reproduction will remain on display at Volandia, a fitting home in the very region where Italy’s pioneering aeronautical industry was born and thrived. The aircraft stands as a testament to the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and ambition that once positioned Italy at the forefront of aviation innovation.
