Macchi L.1

When a copy of the capable Lohner Type L or T.I flying boat was captured in May 1915, it was found to be superior to contemporary Italian naval aircraft. Taken to the Macchi-Nieuport factory with a request to manufacture Italian copies, the L40 was extensively studied, and the new plane, the Macchi L.1 was completed by the next month. Thirty-one were built in 1915 and 109 in 1916. The L.1 differed from the Lohner of course in engine and armament, and it served from late 1915 to autumn 1916 when replaced with F.B.A. flying boats or Macchi M.3's, and the remainders were moved to training roles.

The L.1 served widely in reconnaissance, bombing, and patrol roles in both the Adriatic and Mediterranean. The seaplane tender RN Europa operated 4-8 L.1 flying boats.