Quantcast

Iconic British Aerospace military aircraft: A historical overview

American Halts CRJ-200 Operations
Shanghai Airlines to Launch Casablanca Route
Engine maker agrees to compensate WizzAir for grounded planes
Turkish Airlines’ flights are riddled with bedbugs, passengers say
British Airways frequent flyers react to Executive Club changes
Inside the short-lived, men-only flights where kids and women were banned but cigar and pipe smoking were rife
China steps up drive to break Boeing, Airbus grip on plane market
Heathrow’s New York service clings to spot in top aviation routes
Airline praises pilots in crash-landing where both died but nearly half the passengers survived
Mexico state airline to buy five Embraer planes next year
A record number of people are expected to fly over the holidays. That's good for travel stocks, but not for passengers.
American Airlines technical issue sparks travel chaos on Christmas Eve as flights heavily delayed after being grounded
Why United Airlines has had such a stellar year despite being Boeing's biggest customer
JetBlue nixing routes between multiple major cities, reducing several others
Airline Stocks Led The Travel Industry's Record 2024 Rally. Here's What's Next.
It’s beginning to look like another record for holiday travel
Qatar Airways cleans up at the World Travel Awards
All of the strikes at European airports this winter – find out if you are affected
Meet the CEO trying to turn around Air India, the 92-year-old airline with a pile of problems
Skiplagging: Unpacking the Risky Travel Trend That Involves Tricking Airlines
Qantas engineers walk off job on one of the busiest travel days of the year
South Korea to safeguard competition after Korean Air, Asiana merger
China Southern returns to Adelaide
Global Airline Industry Revenues Forecast To Top $1 Trillion For First Time In 2025
EasyJet to launch six new routes from the UK next year with £24 flights
Here's Why Analysts Say It's a Good Time to Buy Airline Stocks
A No-Frills Airline Is Getting Into the Premium Game
TAKING OFF: Major airline introduces new inflight service rules with less time to order your drinks
2 Delta flight attendants fail breathalyzer test before flight to JFK
EasyJet reveals plans for new flights from regional UK airport next summer
Iconic British Aerospace military aircraft: A historical overview
Policy
Webp 5r3vc2svdh8ibaxk8gr8iutw0za2
Simple Flying | Simple Flying

The history of British Aerospace is marked by a series of renowned military aircraft, from the Spitfire, known for its role in the Battle of Britain, to the innovative Harrier jump-jet. These aircraft highlight Britain's legacy in aviation.

The Supermarine Spitfire earned its reputation through combat during World War II. "Dogfighting for the very survival of the British Isles," it played a crucial role against the Luftwaffe. The Spitfire's design included an elliptical wing and sleek aerodynamics, which contributed to its success. Many pilots praised its intuitive control responses, allowing skilled operation at high performance levels. The aircraft evolved into various models and served internationally after the war.

Another key aircraft was the Hawker Hurricane, an essential part of the RAF during WWII. It was known for its robustness and versatility in roles such as ground-attack and anti-ship missions. Despite being overshadowed by other planes, it remained vital in combating Axis forces.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The Gloster Meteor holds significance as "the first and only allied jet fighter" to engage before WWII ended. Its twin-engine design offered new capabilities that changed traditional combat tactics.

During the Cold War, the English Electric Lightning stood out with its unique engine installation and supersonic performance capabilities. Pilots noted that flying this aircraft required careful throttle management due to its power output.

Finally, the Hawker Siddeley Harrier is celebrated for its vertical take-off and landing abilities. Known as a "timeless legend," it supported troops effectively on close air support missions with variants like the Sea Harrier serving naval purposes globally.

British Aerospace's contributions through these iconic aircraft underscore their impact on military aviation history.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

British Airways is the leading foreign long-haul airline serving the United States.

Jun 5, 2025

United Airlines has completed a deal with the Chicago Department of Aviation to acquire five additional gates at Chicago O'Hare International Airport.

Jun 5, 2025

Boeing has reached a production milestone, achieving a monthly output of 38 737 MAX aircraft for the first time since 2020.

Jun 5, 2025

At 14:12 local time on June 2, an Allegiant Air Airbus A320 experienced engine failure shortly after taking off from Huntington Tri-State Airport.

Jun 5, 2025

The UK government has initiated a comprehensive airspace modernization program, marking the first significant update since the 1950s.

Jun 5, 2025

Global Airlines has addressed speculation about its future operations, denying any intention to operate as an ACMI carrier using Airbus A380 aircraft.

Jun 5, 2025