After more than a month of anticipation, a guard arrived with news that Henry Coanda and his team had completed the task assigned by the army. They were now eager to invite the Crown Prince to inspect their work. Understanding the significance of this moment—the unveiling of Romania's first batch of military aircraft—Edel eagerly agreed to attend the handover.
The next day found Edel at the original flight base, now rebranded as the Coanda Aircraft Factory. There, he was greeted by Henry Coanda, his assistant Firaicu—who had recently been discharged from the hospital—and Major Ankerdra, an officer of the newly established Army Air Corps.
"Coanda, how do you feel after being discharged from the hospital?" Edel inquired, showing genuine concern for the famed Romanian aviator.
"It was dreadful being away from my beloved planes," Coanda confessed, then quickly shifted the focus. "Actually, the design of this aircraft was primarily the work of my assistant, Firaicu. His skills are no less than mine, though perhaps I've been luckier."
With a smile, Coanda introduced his assistant more formally, evidently proud and somewhat eager to promote his protégé.
"I've known of your assistant for some time; he is indeed a remarkable pilot," Edel responded, extending his hand to Firaicu. "The role you've played in helping our army build these aircraft has had a profound impact."
"Thank you very much, Your Majesty. It is my honor to serve Romania," Firaicu replied, gratitude evident in his tone.
Turning to Major Ankerdra, Edel discussed the strategic implications of the new aircraft. "Once this batch of aircraft is officially received, you must consider their utility. Moving forward, these machines should serve purposes beyond mere reconnaissance. It requires thoughtful planning from your department."
"We will heed your advice, Your Highness," Ankerdra assured him, nodding respectfully.
With the formalities winding down, Coanda suggested, "Your Highness, shall we proceed to view the aircraft?"
"Indeed," Edel agreed.
Outside the hangar, eight newly constructed planes awaited them. Firaicu stepped forward, saluting the Crown Prince before launching into his explanation. "Since I primarily designed these, allow me to share some details about the aircraft, which we've named 'Pioneer'. Each features a biplane structure with a fuselage length of 13.2 meters and a wingspan of 10.1 meters. The gap between the wings is 1.2 meters. We've constructed the main body using a hollow steel frame, over which we've stretched a wooden skin. The engine, a French rotary type, is mounted in the nose, and we've surrounded the pilot's seat with a protective iron ring to shield from ground fire..."
As Firaicu detailed the specifications, Edel began to appreciate that perhaps it was Firaicu, rather than Coanda, who was the true mastermind behind the aircraft's design. Coanda seemed more the daring aviator and adventurer.
"What do you think of the aircraft, Your Highness?" Firaicu asked after completing his technical overview.
Curious about its capabilities, Edel inquired, "What are its range and maximum altitude?"
"The aircraft has a maximum range of about 80 kilometers and can reach altitudes up to 3,000 meters," Firaicu answered, his tone a mix of pride and caution, aware that these figures were improvements yet still modest.
"Excellent work. Continue striving for advancements. Let's observe the pilots in action," Edel encouraged, his interest piqued.
At his signal, Major Ankerdra gestured to the crew, and soon a pilot boarded one of the aircraft. The engine roared to life, and the plane took off, gracefully ascending into the sky.
Watching the aircraft climb, Edel commented to Coanda and Firaicu, "This 'Pioneer' meets the basic military needs, but its range is limited, affecting its practicality."
The two designers exchanged a glance before Coanda asked, "Your Highness, what specifications would you deem ideal for military needs?"
"The range should exceed 120 kilometers, ideally around 150. The flight duration should be over forty minutes, though the current altitude capability is sufficient. It should also be more robust," Edel specified, recalling advanced aircraft data he had studied.
Feeling the weight of the Crown Prince's expectations, Coanda assured him, "We will take your requirements into account and aim to develop such an aircraft within the next couple of years."
"I look forward to the good news. Should you succeed, I plan to authorize the purchase of over 24 units for the army," Edel promised, offering both a challenge and an incentive.
"Thank you for your support, Your Highness," both engineers acknowledged, motivated by the potential order.
After discussing the aircraft, Edel's attention turned to the pilots. "Major Ankerdra, is the current pilot from your aviation team?"
"Yes, Your Highness. We trained 12 soldiers over the past three months. Today, our best pilot, Jan Ilascu, is demonstrating the aircraft," Ankerdra explained.
Intrigued, Edel requested more information about Ilascu. Ankerdra shared that Ilascu hailed from Iasi, where his family owned a small farm. Recognized for his intellect by a local priest, Ilascu was taught to read and later sent to school, excelling in his studies until financial hardships halted his education. He joined the army and was eventually selected for pilot training.
As Ilascu skillfully landed the plane and approached, removing his flying cap, Edel noted his striking appearance, reminiscent of a young Leonardo DiCaprio from the movie "Titanic."
"Greetings, Your Highness," Ilascu said, bowing slightly.
"Hello, Ilascu. Major Ankerdra speaks highly of you. I trust you will continue to excel," Edel responded, encouraging the young pilot.
"Yes, my lord. I will strive to surpass expectations," Ilascu promised before excusing himself.
With a final look at the aircraft lined up on the field, Edel expressed his hopes to Coanda and Firaicu: "This is Romania's first practical aircraft. I anticipate seeing many more innovative designs in the future."
"His Royal Highness, the meeting," they affirmed, their spirits buoyed by the Crown Prince's engagement and vision for Romania's aerial capabilities.