The jet aircraft is celebrating its 50th birthday today.On this date in 1952 the first Comet took off from London bound for South Africa a journey which took 23 hours,before the jet engine this would of taken a couple of days.
So happy birthday to one of the UK’s best aviation achievments!Sadly just as one of the UK’s aviation treasures has its 50th birthday the Avro RJ will end production at BAe at Woodford very soon.
By: Saab 2000 - 3rd May 2002 at 18:44
RE: 50th birthday of the jet aircraft!
Yes EGNM,Breakfast yesterday showed something about it.They also interviewed Richard Bransons mother who was an air stewardess,very interesting to listen.
By: EGNM - 3rd May 2002 at 18:29
RE: 50th birthday of the jet aircraft!
Some1 was watching the BBC News yesterday!
By: kev35 - 3rd May 2002 at 17:15
RE: 50th birthday of the jet aircraft!
Glen,
You’re right about the chequered history of the early Comets, but you must admire us Brits for our longevity. The last Comet only ceased flying in the last couple of years, and they’re trying to get it airworthy again now. Also, the Comet still continues as the Nimrod, and I don’t know whether there are any plans for a successor?
It’s typical of the RAF to find use for retired airliners, look at the VC10, BAC1-11, Nimrod and the Tristar. Forgot the 707 for a moment there.
Regards,
kev35
By: Glenn - 3rd May 2002 at 15:17
RE: 50th birthday of the jet aircraft!
Sadly also on the UK’s biggest aviation disasters as well; the Comet jet airliner.
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May 3, 2002 at 1:31 pm