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The Whispering Giant 2 / 2017
Ah, The Britannia! A most elegant and exotic aircraft which compared to the DC-7s and Constellations of the time truly did whisper.
The Britannia, conceived in 1950, fell victim to the malady that affected most British Airliners, a prolonged and dysfunctional development program.
The first test flight was an omen, as over sensitive controls led to wild pitching of the aircraft, the cockpit filled with smoke, and the landing gear malfunctioned, fully deploying only seconds before landing.
There were numerous engine issues, resulting in the crash of the 2nd prototype. Nevertheless, fueled by an order for 25 aircraft by BOAC, designs were finalized and production launched.
During the first 8 months of trials, 16 in flight engine failures occurred and 49 unscheduled engine removals were required. Sales prospects dimmed as delays continued.
But the Britannia entered service in 1957, much to the delight of passengers, and relief of BOAC management. Sadly, important orders from American trunk airlines, Capital and Northeast failed to materialize, due to their financial issues. But the Britannia flew, and led the world in speed and comfort until the arrival of the pure jets.
As production wound down in 1960 and 1961, the Canadair licensed Britannia derivative aircraft was ramping up, lasting ultimately until 1965. The CL-44 was not without its own development problems, from total electrical failures to engines shaking loose, but by 1960 it became the ideal freighter, as well as a high capacity long haul passenger airliner. The Britannia program, conceived in 1950 concluded 16 years later with the last CL-44 delivery to Loftleidir.
This is a selection of Airline issued and publisher cards, which illustrate many of the "Whispering Giant" operators. |
Album by John Schmidt. 1 - 96 of 96 Total. 0 Visits. |
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