Bristol Britannia

The Bristol Type 175 Britannia is a retired British medium-to-long-range airliner built by the Bristol Aeroplane Company from 1952 to meet the civil needs identified by the Brabazon Committee. Two prototypes were lost during development and its turboprop engines proved prone to inlet icing, which delayed entry into service until the problem was cured. By then pure jet airliners were about to enter service, and only 85 Britannias were built before production ended in 1960. It is regarded as a landmark of turboprop airliner design, was popular with passengers and was nicknamed The Whispering Giant for its quiet exterior noise and smooth flying. The prototype first flew on 16 August 1952 at Filton Aerodrome. Canadair built a further 72 under licence as the CL-44 and CP-107 Argus.