The Vickers VC10 remains an iconic aircraft in British aviation history, known for its distinct rear-mounted engines, high performance, and versatility. Developed by Vickers-Armstrong, it was the last aircraft designed by the company before merging into the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC). The first Vickers VC10 Type 1101, registered as G-ARTA, completed its maiden flight on June 29, 1962, from Weybridge. Despite its design, the aircraft faced challenges in finding widespread global appeal.
The VC10 emerged in response to British Overseas Airways Corporation’s (BOAC) demand for an aircraft that could handle short runways in high-altitude and high-temperature conditions, particularly in Africa. This focus made the VC10 suitable for specific markets but limited its broader adoption. However, its engineering excellence was evident in its record-setting performance, achieving the fastest subsonic transatlantic crossing of just 5 hours and 1 minute, a record it still holds.
Quad Rear-Mounted Engines
The aircraft’s design featured a distinctive T-tail and four rear-mounted Rolls-Royce Conway engines. This configuration enhanced cabin quietness, a feature that BOAC capitalized on with the slogan “Try a little VC-Tenderness.” The Type 1101 VC10 had a maximum speed of 580 mph, a maximum range of 5,850 nautical miles, and could carry up to 135 passengers. Its popularity with passengers did not translate into widespread airline adoption, with only 12 examples entering BOAC service between April 1964 and 1975. Other airlines that operated the VC10 included British United Airways, East African Airways, Ghana Airways, and Air Malawi.
The Vickers Super VC10, or Type 1151, was developed to reduce seat-per-mile costs and cater to transatlantic routes. This variant featured an extended fuselage, increased passenger capacity, and higher maximum takeoff weight, along with more powerful Conway engines producing 22,500 pounds of thrust. The first Super VC10, registered as G-ASGA, flew on May 7, 1964, and entered BOAC service in April 1965. It could accommodate up to 163 passengers and offered a range of 5,960 nautical miles.
The Vickers VC10 also served in military roles, particularly with the Royal Air Force (RAF). The Type 1106 VC10 C.1 variant was designed for Transport Command, accommodating up to 150 troops or 78 stretcher cases. It offered a maximum range of 6,260 nautical miles. Additional VC10s and Super VC10s were later converted for air-to-air refueling operations under the designations K.2 and K.3. The VC10 remained in RAF service until September 20, 2013, when the last operational VC10 K.3 (ZA147) from No. 101 Squadron landed at Bruntingthorpe. This marked the end of 51 years of operational service.
While Nigerian Airways initially planned to purchase VC10s, financial challenges led to the cancellation of their order. Other operators such as British Caledonian and Ghana Airways used VC10s configured with cargo doors, enhancing their utility. Despite its limited commercial success, the VC10’s combination of passenger comfort, adaptability, and record-breaking performance secured its place in aviation history.
Specifications
VC10 Type 1101:
- Length: 158 ft 8 in
- Wingspan: 146 ft 2 in
- Maximum Weight: 312,000 lbs
- Capacity: 10 crew, 115-135 passengers
- Range: 5,850 nm
Super VC10 Type 1151:
- Length: 171 ft 8 in
- Wingspan: 146 ft 2 in
- Maximum Weight: 335,000 lbs
- Capacity: 12 crew, 139-163 passengers
- Range: 5,960 nm
VC10 C.1 Type 1106:
- Length: 158 ft 8 in
- Wingspan: 146 ft 2 in
- Maximum Weight: 322,000 lbs
- Capacity: 5 crew, 150 troops or 78 stretcher cases
- Range: 6,260 nm
