In 1922, the Bristol Aeroplane Company developed a pair of related light aircraft designs, powered by the Bristol Lucifer three-cylinder radial engine, the Type 73 Taxiplane, a three-seat light utility aircraft and tourer, and the Type 83 Primary Trainer, a two-seat trainer intended for use for primary training at Reserve Flying Schools.

[1] The Taxiplane was constructed of wood with fabric covering, and was fitted with single-bay biplane wings.

The first Taxiplane, registered G-EBEW, flew on 13 February 1923,[1] but could be certificated only as a two-seater, being overweight with two passengers and a pilot.

[2] The Primary Trainer, also known as the Bristol Lucifer used the same wings, tail and undercarriage as the Taxiplane, but with a new, narrower fuselage containing two tandem cockpits.

The Primary Trainer showed better performance owing to its slimmer fuselage and lower weight, and was more successful, 24 being built.