Not so long ago the distinctive delta form planes were a common sight over the UK. The bomber was operated by the Royal Air Force from 1956 until 1984. They were part of the cold war force that protected Britain against perceived enemies in the east.
The Avro Vulcan was designed at the height of UK aerospace engineering. Its shape influenced the creation of Concorde and the Space Shuttle. It is a big plane in every way. It has a wingspan of 30 metres and is 30 metres long. It's powered by Rolls-Royce jet engines.
Back in the days when I lived in Lincoln, just off the end of the runway at RAF Waddington, I grew accustomed to the roar as the flights of four took off at all hours. They were loud, and for their size they were remarkably graceful. It's a tragedy that soon there won't even be one left flying.
Many years ago we lived in Aisthorpe in Lincolnshire and at the time to Vulcans were at RAF Scampton (fifty years ago) - their flight path went straight over our house. I look back on them with fond memories and seeing one on TV the other day brought back memories.
ReplyDeleteThat's sad, I remember seeing the Vulcans flying overhead, they were such a distinctive shape. What a pity that it can't be kept in the air - many far older planes are still flying.
ReplyDeleteIt's a curious contradiction that many things of beauty, including this (and other) wonderful aircraft are designed to kill. There's one on display at RAF Hendon (excellent museum);it is colossal!
ReplyDeleteInteresting that you saw on in flight! We sometimes see Forest Service Water Bombers but that is about it:)
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