The Fabre Hydravion on display at the Museum is the original 1910 floatplane built by Henri Fabre, which achieved the first powered water take-off on 28 March 1910. It was powered by a 50 hp Gnome rotary engine and fitted with three floats. On 12 April 1911 it crashed and was damaged beyond repair. The aircraft was acquired by the Museum in early 1920 and subsequently restored to its original configuration.

This very nice replica of the first ever seaplane has been built by an enthousiast team near Toulouse in order to celebrate the 100th aniversary of the first flight of a seaplane in the world. This one was designed and driven by Henri Fabre in March the 28th 1910! the seaplane replica is seen here during its tests prior the expected first flight. Congratulations to all the team for such a work and performance!!

Prior to the move of the Musee de l'Air to Le Bourget, much of the collection was displayed or stored at Chalais Meudon, which is where this aircraft was seen displayed. This is the third Canard built by Henri Fabre, and it differed quite a bit from his earlier attempts. This Hydravion (sea plane) first flew on March 28, 1910.