Otto Pusher Biplane

The Otto Pusher Biplane was Otto's first production airplane. The Bavarian Fliegerkommando (Flying Command) initially preferred pushers for their better sight lines for the observer. Early versions had triple rudders, but 1914 versions had a single large round rudder. A few Otto Pushers were built by Pfalz, with an angular rudder. The Prussian air arm, preferring tractor aircraft, did not use the Otto Pusher, but a few were supplied to the German Navy.

The Pusher's limited power and low ceiling meant pilots had to endure ground fire through their entire flight, frequently from both enemy and "friendly" troops.