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In flight refuelling trials, 1939

In flight refuelling trials, 1939


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In flight refuelling trials, 1939

Short `C Class flying Boat (G-AFCU `CABOT ) of Imperial Airways being refuelled in air by Handley Page Harrow (G-AFRL), 1939

The Royal Air Force Museum is Britain's only national museum dedicated wholly to aviation

Media ID 1194631

© RAF Museum 2008 - All Rights Reserved

Airlines Civil Aircraft Interwar Pioneers


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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this historic photograph, taken in 1939, we witness an in-flight refueling trial between a Short C Class Flying Boat (G-AFCU, registration number CABOT) of Imperial Airways and a Handley Page Harrow (G-AFRL). The image captures a pivotal moment in aviation history as these pioneering aircraft conduct this groundbreaking operation, showcasing the innovation and progress of interwar civil aviation. The Short C Class Flying Boat, also known as the Empire Class, was a long-range, twin-engine flying boat designed by Short Brothers in the late 1930s. It was a significant advancement in aircraft technology, offering increased range, speed, and passenger capacity compared to its predecessors. G-AFCU, specifically, was the first of this type to be delivered to Imperial Airways, and it would go on to serve with distinction during the early years of commercial air travel. The Handley Page Harrow, on the other hand, was a four-engine long-range transport and maritime patrol aircraft, also produced by Handley Page in the late 1930s. It was primarily used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) for various roles, including maritime patrol, transport, and VIP transport. G-AFRL was one of the earliest Harrows to be built, and it was modified for the specific purpose of in-flight refueling trials. The photograph, taken by Charles E. Brown for the RAF Museum, documents this remarkable event as the two aircraft fly in formation, with the Harrow extending its refueling boom to transfer fuel to the Short C Class Flying Boat. This pioneering achievement would pave the way for future advancements in air-to-air refueling technology, enabling longer-range flights and expanding the reach of both military and civilian aviation.

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