Comet Jet Airliner eBook by Pen and Sword Books

In July 1949, the aviation world was revolutionized with the debut of the first jet-powered airliner, the de Havilland Comet 1. This aircraft was not only faster and could reach greater altitudes and distances than its predecessors, but it also offered a quiet, luxurious, and enjoyable passenger experience. The Comet's dominance in jet travel seemed assured until tragic crashes led to its grounding in 1954, allowing competitors like Boeing's 707 to catch up. However, a new Comet emerged, larger and more powerful, serving as key carriers for early package holidays and vital strategic transports for the RAF. This book chronicles the full history of the world's first jet-powered airliner, from its inception, through its flight trials and service entry, to its military career, construction, variants, and surviving examples.