Jane's Encyclopedia of Aviation

Goupy I and II (France)
   The Goupy I was the first full-size triplane to fly, on 5 September 1908. Power was provided by a 37.25 kW (50 hp) Renault engine. The more important Goupy II was powered by an 18 kW (24 hp) REP engine and flew for the first time on 9 March 1909. This aircraft is generally recognised as the first successful tractor-engined biplane to fly.