Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

DH Comet 1 prototype in 'B' condition markings as G-5-1, Hatfield mid-1949.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Comet 1 G-ALYP of BOAC, as delivered in April 8, 1952. This aircraft crashed off Elba, Italy, on January 10, 1954.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Comet 1A F-BGSA of Union Aeromaritime de Transport. Delivered on December 11, 1952, ' SA was withdrawn and put into storage in April 1954 at Le Bourget. It was scrapped in 1961.

Aviation Historian 41 / M.Wickstead - French wings over five continents. The story of UTA (1)

The first of UAT’s de Havilland D.H.106 Comet 1As to be delivered, F-BGSA (c/n 6015) made the type’s initial proving flight in UAT service from Paris to Dakar via Casablanca on December 27, 1952, regular services commencing on February 19, 1953.

Air International 2007-02 / W.Mellberg - de Havilland D.H.106 Comet /Aircraft profile/

de Havilland DH.106 Comet 1A, F-BGSB, c/n 06016 was delivered in 1953 to French carrier UAT, the first foreign airline to operate the type. Three Comet 2s were also ordered, but never taken up. After the Comet accidents, UAT's first two Comet 1s were withdrawn in 1954: the third aircraft, delivered in April 1953, lasted only two months in service before it skidded off the runway at Dakar, resulting in damage beyond economic repair.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Comet 1XB 5302 of 412 Squadron, RCAF. Delivered as a Series 1A on April 13,1953, it was converted to 1XB status (oval cabin windows) in September 1957. Retired from RCAF service in 1964, it went on to several civil operators and was scrapped at Miami in late 1975.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Comet C.2 XK697 ‘Cygnus’ entered service with 216 Squadron at Lyneham on December 12, 1956, joining 51 Squadron at Wyton in March 1967 and was retired in late 1972.

Air International 2007-02 / W.Mellberg - de Havilland D.H.106 Comet /Aircraft profile/

de Havilland DH.106 Comet 2, XV144, c/n 06033. Like many of the Comet 2s this aircraft had a varied career, starting life as G-AMXK and being used by BOAC for engine trials. After being employed by Smith Industries for automatic landing system development work, it joined the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Bedford in 1966 and was flown by the Blind Landing Experiment Unit. Transferred to Farnborough in 1971, it was withdrawn from service in 1974 and broken up a year later.

Aeroplane Monthly 2000-01 / P.Jarrett - Landmarks in the sky /Epoch-making aircraft/

The de Havilland D.H.106 Comet entered the record books as the world's first turbojet-powered commercial airliner. Rolled out in April 1949, the first prototype G-5-1/G-ALVG first flew on July 27, 1949, under the power of four 4,450lb-thrust de Havilland Ghost 50s. The first production aircraft flew on January 1, 1950, and British Overseas Airways Corporation began regular operations on May 2, 1952.

Мировая Авиация 85

Полет первого реактивного авиалайнера. 27 июля 1949г.: с заводского аэродрома в Хэтфилде под управлением летчика-испытателя Джона Каннингхема, бывшего аса, совершил первый полет прототип de Havilland DH.106 Comet I (G-ALVG, на фото). Самолет имел крейсерскую скорость 789 км/час и стал первым в мире реактивным пассажирским авиалайнером, вышедшим на регулярные маршруты (в мае 1952 года, авиакомпания BOAC). Однако ряд аварий и катастроф в 1953-1954 годах привели к длительному запрету на полеты и необходимости доработать конструкцию машины. Впоследствии прототип использовался для испытаний ракетных ускорителей de Havilland Sprite - первый взлет с ними самолет совершил в мае 1951 года. Затем машину передали для конструкционных испытаний, а в июле 1953 года в Фарнборо ее утилизировали.

Aviation Historian 39 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. A life in politics? (1)

The jewel in the crown of the programme established in the wake of the Brabazon Committee’s final report on the future of British civil aviation in December 1945, the de Havilland D.H.106 Comet represented a quantum leap in airliner technology. Here, the prototype is seen up from Hatfield in the second half of 1949 with its original B Conditions registration, G-5-1.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

The prototype Comet flying over England's green and pleasant land in August 1949.

Авиация и Космонавтика 2024-07 / Некоторые знаменательные даты июля в истории авиации

Air Enthusiast 2003-07 / Round-Out

View of Comet G-ALVG

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

The Comet prototype flying in early BOAC livery in January 1950.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

An early view of the Comet prototype in flight. Note how the four D.H. Ghost turbojets are grouped as close as possible to the fuselage centreline, making asymmetric flying less of a problem.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-11 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (3)

The Comet prototype, with Cunningham at the helm, arriving at the 1949 SBAC show at Farnborough on September 6. In the foreground is G-5-2, the Vampire NF.10 prototype in which Geoffrey Pike had made the maiden flight less than a fortnight earlier.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Vampire / D.H.100 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1943

Aeroplane Monthly 1988-05 / J.Maynard - DH Apprentice (2)

The prototype D.H.106 Comet sweeps into Hatfield across Manor Road on its return from a test flight to Rome in the hands of John Cunningham on March 16, 1950.

Air Pictorial 1999-07 / ??? - Comet - a golden anniversary!

The prototype Comet, G-ALVG/G-5-1, which made aviation history on the evening of July 27, 1949, when it completed its 31 minute first flight.

Aeroplane Monthly 1988-09 / Farnborough 1949

All heads turn to watch the arrival of the world’s first four-jet airliner as John Cunningham, de Havilland chief test pilot, brings in the prototype Comet 1 G-ALVG. The four 5,000lb-thrust de Havilland Ghost engines emit a low whistle as the 36-passenger airliner drops onto its two large-diameter mainwheels. It was the Comet’s first public appearance, the first flight having been made on July 27, 1949, from Hatfield.

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

G-ALZK, the second air­craft, takes off on its initial flight on July 27, 1950.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

The prototype Comet seen during trials following the replacement of the single mainwheel undercarriage with four-wheel bogies. Although the bogies reduced the Comet’s fuel capacity - by 6 1/2 gal on each side! - they weighed less than the single mainwheels.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

A pleased John Cunningham pops his head out of the cockpit of G-ALVG just after the first flight.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

John Cunningham with his crew surrounded by D.H. experimental shop “hands” after the Comet’s first flight, on July 27, 1949.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-11 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (3)

John Cunningham, Sir Frank Whittle and Maj F.B. Halford gathered beneath the tail of the prototype Comet airliner at Hatfield.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-12 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (4)

John Cunningham on his return from a record flight from Hatfield to Rome and back in a little over four flying hours, made in the Comet prototype on March 16, 1950.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

Ronald E. Bishop, head of the team which designed the Comet airliner.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

A signwriter applies the famous name to the prototype.

Авиация и Космонавтика 2014-07 / Знаменательные даты июля в истории авиации

Jane's All the World Aircraft 1980 / Encyclopedia of Aviation - 1. Chronology

Prototype Comet 1 (27 July 1949).

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-11 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (3)

Hatfield on July 27, 1949; John Cunningham’s 32nd birthday and a milestone in his flying career. There on the Hatfield apron is G-5-1, the prototype Comet, awaiting its maiden flight. Later that day, at 1817hr, Cunningham and his crew of four took off from Hatfield and completed a trouble-free 35min first flight away from the eyes of the press.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

The prototype Comet in Class B markings G-5-1 at Hatfield at the time of its first flight. The 31 min maiden flight was made by John Cunningham on July 27, 1949. Note the huge single mainwheels.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

The prototype, G-ALVG bearing BOAC markings on the nose, arriving at Copenhagen during the record-breaking route proving runs.

Air Enthusiast 2003-07 / Round-Out

View of Comet G-ALVG

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

The prototype Comet painted in the new BOAC livery in April 1950. After flying with Sprite assisted take-off equipment in 1951, 'VG was scrapped at Farnborough in July 1953.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-12 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (4)

Comet prototype G-ALVG at the 1950 Farnborough show in BOAC livery.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-10 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (1)

First flown on April 9, 1952, from Hatfield, Comet 1 G-ALYV had been in service with BOAC less than a year when it was lost in a crash near Calcutta on May 2, 1953.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Первая серийная "Комета" (борт G-ALYP) "Старина Питер" в аэропорту Йоханнесбурга в преддверии открытия регулярной эксплуатации.

Авиация и Космонавтика 2007-04 / Знаменательные даты весны 2007г. в области авиации

Рождение реактивного "транспортника". 2 мая 1952г.: de Havilland Comet I, первый реактивный пассажирский лайнер, получивший сертификат летной годности (22 января), вышел на линию Лондон - Йоханнесбург компании BOAC. Начались первые регулярные полеты реактивных авиалайнеров. Первый рейс совершил самолет G-ALYP, который из Лондона до Бейрута пилотировал А.М.А.Мадженди, от Бейрута до Хартума - Дж.Т.Э.Марсден, а между Хартумом и Йоханнесбургом - через Энтеббе и Ливингстоун - Р.К.Алабастер. Расстояние в 10821 км было преодолено за 23 ч 34 мин.
Departure of the first BOAC Comet scheduled passenger flight.

Air Enthusiast 2003-05 / Round-Out

First prototype DH Comet at Farnborough, near the golf course end. Photo shows a Comet with single mainwheels yet it has 'slipper' wing tanks. Look at the engine intakes, the intake visible on the starboard side is different from the port.

Aviation Historian 40 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. The knife's edge (2)

With the Comet Mk 1, BOAC could legitimately claim to be a ‘‘world leader in air travel", as this brochure claimed - but as BOAC Chairman Sir Miles Thomas said of the 1954 crashes: “All my aspirations and expectations had fallen out of the sky”.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

Comet 1 G-ALYY at Frankfurt-Main on April 21, 1953. First flown on September 9, 1952, this aircraft crashed into the Tyrrhenian Sea north of Stromboli on April 8, 1954.

Air Pictorial 1977-12 / J.Hunt - Aviation in the Sudan - before independence

BOAC started jet services through Khartoum with de Havilland Comets in May 1952. Shown here is Comet G-ALYU with members of the Sudanese Camel Corps

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

The ill-fated first production Comet 1, G-ALYP, at the time of its first flight in January 1951.

Aeroplane Monthly 1981-03 / News Spotlight

Seen at RAF Cosford is the D.H. Comet 1A G-APAS, ex XM823/8351M, painted in BOAC livery.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Демонстрируя надежность и веру в изделие английских самолетостроителей, королева Елизавета совершила на "Кометах" авиакомпании BOAC несколько вояжей за рубеж. На приведенном снимке "Комета"1 доставила Ее Величество в Эмбакаси.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

Royal approval The Queen Mother and Princess Margaret leave Comet I G-ALWY at Heathrow having arrived from Salisbury, Rhodesia on July 17, 1953.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-10 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (1)

Ill-fated Comet 1 G-ALYZ pictured at Hatfield on September 22, 1949 the day before its first flight.

Air Enthusiast 2003-07 / Round-Out

View of Comet G-ALVG

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-12 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (4)

G-ALVG, the prototype Comet, leaps away assisted by Sprite rockets installed between the Ghost tailpipes.
The de Havilland Sprite rocket motor produced 5,000lb thrust; two were installed on the Comet prototype G-ALVG for flight trials beginning in May 1951.

Aviation Historian 39 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. A life in politics? (1)

The prototype, registered G-ALVG and resplendent in BOAC colours, up from Farnborough during the SBAC show in September 1950. The new jetliner was streets ahead of any other airliner then available, but its success was dependent on a series of government interventions that would have far-reaching consequences.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

The first production Comet 1, G-ALYP, was delivered to BOAC in March 1952.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-12 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (4)

On May 2, 1952, Comet G-ALYP took the first fare-paying passengers from London to Johannesburg. On January 10, 1954, 'YP hit the headlines again, when it suffered catastrophic failure, the wreckage falling into the sea off Elba.
‘Yoke Peter’, the first production aircraft which was lost off Elba in 1954.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

The prototype Comet, G-ALVG, in formation with the second aircraft, G-ALZK.

Мировая Авиация 67

10 января 1954г.: самолет de Havilland Comet I (G-ALYP) потерпел катастрофу в Средиземном море в районе острова Эльба; погибли все 35 человек, находившиеся на его борту.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-10 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (1)

The first three completed Comet Is in formation early in 1951. The first production aircraft, G-ALYP, is nearest the camera. It was lost in the sea off Elba on October 1, 1954. Comet prototype G-ALVG is in the centre and G-ALZK completes the trio.

Мировая Авиация 197

Первые три Comet I компании BOAC. На переднем плане запечатлен G-ALYP, первый реактивный авиалайнер, вышедший 2 мая 1953 года на коммерческий маршрут из Лондона в Йоханнесбург.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

The first three completed Comets airborne together in March 1951. Nearest the camera is the first production Comet, G-ALYP. The two prototypes, G-ALVG and G-ALZK, cruise discreetly in the background.

Aviation Historian 40 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. The knife's edge (2)

Авиакомпания "Эйр Франс" в 1951г. заказала три "Кометы"1A, отличавшиеся от стандартной "единички" увеличенным до 44 мест пассажирским салоном и более экономичными двигателями, что позволило увеличить дальность полета на 30%.
Keen to capitalise on the prestige of the Comet and its sparkling performance, two French airlines acquired three Comet 1As each during 1952-53: Union Aeromaritime de Transport (UAT) and Air France. The latter’s first example, F-BGNX, seen here, operated on the airline’s Paris-Rome-Beirut service from the summer of 1953.

Мировая Авиация 197

"Air France" приступила к эксплуатации Comet 26 августа 1953 года на маршруте Париж - Рим - Бейрут, но после лишения в апреле 1954 года самолета сертификата летной годности компания больше его не использовала.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Series 1A F-BGNY of Air France at Hatfield, prior to delivery. It flew the first Air France turbojet service on August 26, 1953. DH bought ’NY back in April 1954 and it later joined the Ministry of Aviation test fleet as a Series 1XB.

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

In February 1953, F-BGSA began regular services between Paris, Casablanca and Dakar.

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

Canadian Pacific received two Comets, CF-CUM later returning to BOAC.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Canadian Pacific’s 1A CF-CUM ‘Empress of Vancouver’ at the SBAC display at Farnborough, September 1952 with a huge queue waiting to inspect the interior. CPA did not operate the aircraft, it was passed on to BOAC in August 1953.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-10 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (1)

Canadian Pacific Comet 1A CF-CUN Empress of Hawaii was destroyed at Karachi while on its delivery flight on March 3, 1953.

Мировая Авиация 197

"Canadian Pacific" имела в начале 1950-х годов два самолета Comet Series 1A - CF-CUM и CF-CUN (на фотографии). Первый был передан BOAC, где получил регистрацию G-ANAV, a CF-CUN потерпел аварию во время взлета.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

"Комета"1A из состава Королевских ВВС Канады (RCAF).

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

After modification to IXB standard, the two RCAF Comets went on to give some years of reliable service.

Air Enthusiast 2007-03 / D.Willis - Extended Family /Post-war combat/ (3)

The RCAF operated two Comets, though it used them only briefly

Мировая Авиация 197

Компания "de Havilland" в рамках совершенствования самолета решила на новом поколении, Comet 2, установить двигатели Rolls-Royce Avon. Последние были опробованы на прототипе Comet 2X (G-ALYT), совершившем первый полет 16 февраля 1952 года.

Aviation Historian 40 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. The knife's edge (2)

The first production Comet 2, G-AMXA, made its first flight on August 27, 1953, the new variant incorporating fuselage pressure shells of heavier-gauge metal, rounded apertures and modified engine jetpipes swept outwards to reduce fuselage buffeting. All 12 Comet 2s ultimately went to the RAF, G-AMXA becoming XK655.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Первый полет серийной "Кометы"2. Экипаж возглавляет Джон Кэннингхэм. 27 августа 1953г.

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

Recovering from the publicity, de Havilland showed the Comet II G-AMXD and the improved III G-ANLO at the 1954 SBAC Show at Farnborough.

Aviation Historian 39 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. A life in politics? (1)

The shape of things to come - this 1954 de Havilland promotional photograph shows Comet 2 G-AMXD (which became XN453 in RAF service) in the background accompanying the sole Comet 3, G-ANLO. The latter was lengthened by 15ft 5in (4-7m) and fitted with wing-mounted pinion fuel tanks for increased range performance.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Comet 3 / 4 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1954

Aviation Historian 41 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. Back in business (3)

With three Comet 2s in the background, Comet 3 G-ANLO is towed on to the distinctive apron at Hatfield in May 1954. The new variant’s pinion tanks fitted at two-thirds span are clearly visible. Initially fitted with 10,000lb (44kN)-thrust Avon 502 engines, G-ANLO had these replaced with more powerful hush-kitted Avon RA.29s in 1957.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Comet 3 / 4 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1954

Aviation Historian 39 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. A life in politics? (1)

The Comet not only ushered in the jet era in terms of commercial transport, but also pioneered the use of jet aircraft in the military transport role. Ultimately, all 15 of the Avon-powered Comet 2s built entered service with RAF Transport Command, No 216 Sqn becoming the world’s first military jet transport unit in the summer of 1956.

Air Pictorial 1958-10

Will you fly Comets? This Comet 2 has a stage length of more than 2,200 miles against a 50 m.p.h. headwind. The cruising speed is 480 m.p.h. and the cruising altitude is 35-40,000 ft. The Comets provide the R.A.F. with that essential quality of mobility so vital in air strategy today.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

THE DE HAVILLAND COMET 2 in service with ROYAL AIR FORCE TRANSPORT COMMAND js powered by ROLLS-ROYCE AVON TURBO JETS
Superb portrait of Comet C.2 XK671. Delivered to the RAF in August 1956, it served with 216 Squadron as ‘Aquila’ until September 1962 and was retired in 1966.
In 1956 No 216 Squadron RAF became the world’s first military jet transport squadron. It was equipped with Comet C.2s of which XX671, seen here, was an early example. The squadron’s first operational flight was made on June 23, 1956, when one of the unit’s Comets flew the Air Minister to Moscow for Soviet Air Force Day. XK671 was later named Aquila.

Air-Britain Aeromilitaria 1984-01

Landing at Bahrain with forces for the build-up is a Comet C.2 of No.216 Squadron

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

After the accidents, plans to operate Comet IIs commercially were dropped, those aircraft that had been built being modified for use by RAF Transport Command. XK669 was one of ten operated by No 216 Sqn.

Мировая Авиация 152

Британская разведка. Как и ВВС США, в начале 1960-х годов британские ВВС имели свой парк самолетов РТР, включая Comet R.Mk 2 (фото) и Canberra B.Mk 6 (mod) из 51-й эскадрильи. Оба типа были приняты на вооружение в 1958 году и неоднократно проходили доработки. Comet и Canberra регулярно появлялись на авиабазе Акротири на Кипре. Отсюда они совершали полеты к южным рубежам Советского Союза, а также отслеживали потенциальных противников на Ближнем Востоке.

Aviation Historian 40 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. The knife's edge (2)

Comet 2 G-AMXH made its first flight on August 21, 1956, but was not certificated and was converted into a Comet C.2 for the RAF, for which it served as XK695, joining No 216 Sqn at Lyneham later that year. With the Comet 2s hived off to the RAF, de Havilland turned its attention to developing the Comet 3 into the definitive variant, the Comet 4.

История Авиации 2000-02 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (2)

Первые признаки хрущевской оттепели: "Комета"T.2 из состава 216-й эскадрильи Королевских ВВС в аэропорту Внуково, лето 1956г.

Air Pictorial 1977-05 / T.Norman - Strathallan Collection

The Strathallan Collection includes a fair cross-section of de Havilland types: Comet C.2 G-AMXA/XK655

Air-Britain Aeromilitaria 1978-04

VC10, Comet C.4, Comet C.2, Britannia C.I and Belfast C.I on the parking pan at Brize

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: Bristol Britannia / Type 175 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1952De Havilland Comet 3 / 4 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1954Short SC.5 Belfast - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1964Vickers VC-10 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1962

Air Pictorial 1999-07 / ??? - Comet - a golden anniversary!

July 30, 1962, was a wet day, but undeterred, No 216 Sqn displayed its new C.4s alongside a C.2 (XK669) and a Bristol Britannia at RAF Lyneham.1

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: Bristol Britannia / Type 175 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1952De Havilland Comet 3 / 4 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1954

История Авиации 2000-03 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (3)

Хотя "Кометы" были достаточно быстро выведены из коммерческой эксплуатации, они еще долгое время служили в качестве летающих лабораторий в исследовательском и летно-испытательном центрах Королевских ВВС.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Comet 3 / 4 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1954

Air International 1994-08 / A.Pearcy - A look back at Bedford

This unique formation of Comet research aircraft took place on March 29, 1972, near Bedford. Leading the trio is XN453 ex G-AMXD c/n 06026, in the background is XP915 the only Comet 3 ex G-ANLO c/n 06100 transferred to the BLEU at Bedford on June 21, 1961, and in use until March 1972. Nearest the camera is XV814 ex G-APDF c/n 06407.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Comet 3 / 4 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1954

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Одним из отличий "двойки" от "единички" стали более глубокие воздухозаборники двигателей "Эвон"R.A.25 (Mk.503, Mk.504).

Aviation Historian 39 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. A life in politics? (1)

The fitting of Avons required the enlargement of the air intakes in the wing roots, as seen in this photo of G-ALYT.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

Early Comets were powered by four 5,000lb-thrust turbojet engines buried in the wing roots. The Comet 4 series had double this power and were fitted with four Rolls-Royce.

Aviation Historian 39 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. A life in politics? (1)

One of the Avon engines fitted to Comet 1 G-ALYT during the latter’s construction; this led to the aircraft being designated the Comet 2X, which made its first flight on February 16, 1952.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

Early Comets were powered by four 5,000lb-thrust turbojet engines buried in the wing roots.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

The prototype DH.106 under construction at Hatfield.

Jane's All the World Aircraft 1980 / Encyclopedia of Aviation - Aircraft A-Z - v3

The night shift continues work on the prototype de Havilland D.H.106 Comet.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

Early Comets under construction at Hatfield. A notice in the roof says: “Sheet metal must be handled with care to avoid scratching the surface”.

Aeroplane Monthly 1997-03 / J.Stroud - Tamblin's Tram

Two Heron Is in the Hatfield assembly shop in January 1952. A Comet’s nose is visible in the background.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Heron / D.H.114 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1950

Aeroplane Monthly 1988-05 / J.Maynard - DH Apprentice (2)

In this photograph of one of the Hatfield aircraft assembly halls can be seen Chipmunks, Comets, Vampires and Venoms.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: De Havilland Vampire / D.H.100 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1943De Havilland Venom / D.H.112 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1949De Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk - КанадаCanada - 1946

Aeroplane Monthly 1988-04 / J.Maynard - DH Apprentice (1)

This photograph of Comet 1 production at Hatfield was taken five months before the maiden flight of the prototype. The 31 min first flight took place on July 27, 1949 in private and without the press in attendance.

Aeroplane Monthly 1988-05 / J.Maynard - DH Apprentice (2)

The “coffin-like” box from which the author had a riveting experience with production Comets.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-10 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (1)

A Comet under construction at Hatfield in 1952, showing the rear of the pressurised fuselage about to be mated with the tail section.

Air Pictorial 1956-10

The nose section of Comet I, G-AIYZ.

Aviation Historian 40 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. The knife's edge (2)

In the wake of the BOAC Comet crashes in January and April 1954, Comet 1 G-ALYU was used for testing in a tank at the RAE at Farnborough, in which water was used to simulate cabin loading in flight and hydraulic rams were used to simulate loading on the wings. The loads applied simulated a three-hour flight in ten minutes.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

An aerial view of the Hatfield water tank in December 1955. The filled section, containing the Comet 2 fuselage, held 220,000 gal of water. The empty end portion had a capacity of 70,000 gal. A reservoir of 330,000 gal may be seen in the bottom right-hand corner.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

To test the steering, a Comet nosewheel was fitted to a converted lorry chassis with bomber (Halifax?) mainwheels to stop the unit overturning. The figure on the right, wearing the hat, is Sir Geoffrey de Havilland.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

The prototype Comet's cockpit, an essay in functional neatness and simplicity. The small group of engine instruments is located in the centre of the fascia panel, with the four throttles immediately below. The two sets of levers at the bottom of the central console are fuel cocks.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-12 / J.Maynard - John Cunningham (4)

John Cunningham with Peter Bugge, de Havilland chief development test pilot, in the cockpit of a Comet.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

Comfort, coupled with efficiency and economy, was the hallmark of the Comet’s passenger cabin and seating. The failure of early Comet fuselages started at windows identical to the one seen here.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

Reduxed window frame of a Comet 1 during construction in 1951. Rivets mean holes, and holes mean leaks, and Comet designer R. E. Bishop originally decided on extensive Redux bonding, which saved the weight of rivets and allowed the use of thinner plate. A combination of riveting and bonding was used on the Comet.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

A BOAC Comet seen after it ran off the runway at Dum Dum Airport, Calcutta in 1953.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

In June 1953, six months before the first comet cabin failed in flight, a test section at Hatfield had been given 16,000 fatigue cycles before failure. The actual cabin failure occurred at around 1,000 fatigue cycles.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

The Farnborough Comet 1 fuselage fails after the equivalent of 9,000 flying hours.

Aeroplane Monthly 1994-02 / R.Dennis - Farnborough's caterpillars (2)

A 1954 photograph showing metal fatigue/stress failure of a Comet airliner pressure cabin at Farnborough.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

Comet G-ALYZ seen at Ciampino Airport, Rome on October 26, 1952 after over-rotating.

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

Comet G-ALYZ after the accident at Rome in October 1952.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Обломки разбившейся 2 мая 1953г. "Кометы" были разбросаны на площади почти в 20 кв.км в 40 км северо-западнее Калькутты.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Трещины в обшивке "Кометы"1 авиакомпании BOAC (рег. код G-ALYU), полученные в результате гидроиспытаний, свидетельствовали о недостаточной прочности силовой конструкции первого реактивного лайнера.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

Корабли Королевского флота поднимают со дна Средиземного моря обломки первой серийной "Кометы" - "Старины Питера".

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

Most of ‘Yoke Peter’s’ tail was recovered from the Mediterranean and reassembled at Farnborough for the subsequent inquiry.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Famous photograph taken at Farnborough of the re-assembled wreckage of G-ALYP.

История Авиации 2000-01 / С.Корж - Неисповедимая судьба "Кометы" /Юбилей/ (1)

В конечном счете в распоряжении экспертов оказалось 3/4 того, что еще недавно было сверкающим лайнером.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-08 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (1)

A photograph from the RAE’s report of the accident to Comet G-ALYP. This aircraft suffered pressure-cabin failure at 26,000ft near Elba on January 10, 1954 and crashed into the sea with the loss of 35 lives.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

The wreckage of one of the passenger seats of one of the Comets, exhibited at the Court of Inquiry in October 1954.

Aeroplane Monthly 1993-11 / T.Nelson - Falling stars (2)

Left, a detail of the starboard front corner of the rear ADF aerial window recovered from the wreckage of the Elba Comet (G-ALYP) reveals cracks and drill holes in the skin. Right, detail of the crack and drill holes in a reinforcing plate from the same ADF window.

Aeroplane Monthly 1989-09 / J.Ramsden - Wings of change (2)

This piece of wreckage recovered from the Elba Comet revealed cracks and drill holes in the skin at the starboard front corner of the rear ADF aerial window.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

Wooden mock-up of the DH.106 at Hatfield.

Aviation Historian 40 / K.Hayward - The De Havilland Comet & the British Government. The knife's edge (2)

A detail from a contemporary advertisement for Sperry flight instruments.

Aeroplane Monthly 1977-08

Designed to meet the requirements of the Brabazon Committee’s Type IV jet transport, ten examples of the D.H.106 were ordered by British Overseas Airways in December 1945. The first Comet, as it was named in December 1947, made a 31min first flight on July 27, 1949, as G-5-1. Later registered G-ALVG, it was powered by four 4,450lb s.t. de Havilland Ghost 50 Mk 1 turbojets.

Aviation Historian 41 / M.Wickstead - French wings over five continents. The story of UTA (1)

A contemporary UAT brochure extolling the virtues of the de Havilland Comet service from Paris to Dakar in Senegal, which took seven hours “aboard the most modern and luxurious aircraft in service on world routes ... without a price increase”. Jet travel was in its infancy when UAT took the bold step of ordering the world’s first jetliner.

Air Enthusiast 1998-11 / F.Prins - World Beater

DH Comet 1

Air Pictorial 1995-04 / A.Jackson - Comet I - Success and Disaster

More than six month’s work resulted in the salvage of a significant amount of the Elba Comet. As well as the external portions shown shaded, a great deal of interior equipment was also recovered including the four engines. Seventy per cent of the empty weight of the aircraft was eventually recovered.

Air International 2002-08 / R.Whitford - Fundamentals of Airliner Design /Commercial/ (10)

Different concepts of engine location. By the mid-1950s, three different engine layouts had flown, of which only two are now in current production. Sud Aviation set the trend in rear engine design with the world's first short-haul jet, the Caravelle, which entered service with Air France in May 1959.

Другие самолёты на фотографии: Another planes on the photo: Boeing Boeing 707/720 - СШАUSA - 1954Sud-Est Caravelle / SE.210 - ФранцияFrance - 1955

Aeroplane Monthly 1999-10 / B.Jones - Perfecting the power /Airborne engine testbeds/

de Havilland Sprite rocket engine. THE SPRITE was developed to assist Comet take-off in hot-and-high conditions. The vertical bridge in the mixing cup was a splash-plate to break down the catalyst into droplets and promote distribution with the peroxide fuel. This drawing first appeared in Flight of February 2, 1950.

Air Pictorial 1999-07 / ??? - Comet - a golden anniversary!

Among several novel layouts for a future jet-powered airliner was the three-engined canard design. In its early form, below, the Comet incorporated 40° sweepback with dihedral on the outer sections.

Мировая Авиация 106

de Havilland Comet C.Mk 2