The Macchi MC 72 was built by The Macchi Aeronautica company in the early 1930s. The Italian company hoped to create a seaplane that could break world records. Mario Castoldi was the chief designer.
It was specifically built with the intention of competing in the final Schneider Trophy race. Unfortunately, due to engine issues it was unable to compete. Later, two pilots were killed flying Macchi MC 72 aircraft while trying to break records due to the fact that the aircraft had many mechanical defects. On October 23, 1934 the pilot Francesco Angello broke several records flying Macchi MC72 serial 181 to a speed of 440 MPH. For five years this was the fastest absolute speed for any airplane class. For the class of piston engine seaplanes it holds the speed record to this day. Five in total were built.
