Iconic aircraft first flew 60 years ago

The AVRO Vulcan, one of the most evocative and instantly recognisable UK aircraft of the Cold War era celebrates its Diamond Jubilee this year.  First flown on 30th August 1952, the famous Delta-Wing aircraft was designed by Roy Chadwick who also designed the Avro Lancaster.

The jet-powered bomber saw distinguished service with the UK’s Royal Air Force for 28 years culminating in the Operation Black Buck over the Falklands in 1982.

Of the 136 aircraft built at the Avro factories at Woodford and Chadderton in the UK, one flying example, XH558, continues to thrill crowds at air shows. In addition, volunteers are hoping to restore the XM603 as a static display aircraft as part of the formation of a permanent Avro Heritage Centre at Woodford.

To commemorate the first flight, Peter Caldwell, a member of the Avro Heritage Group, has released an account of the momentous day when Test Pilot ‘Roly’ Falk took Project AV698 to the air for the very first time. To read Peter’s account visit the Avro Heritage website.

Source: BAE Systems
Photo: Marcel van Leeuwen Z.A.P.P.