Vickers VC-10.
SPECS
ASSEMBLY
INTERIOR
HISTORY
ORDERS
Gulf Air Vickers VC10 Golden Falcon registration A40-VI.
The VC10 with its engines mounted in the rear had a clean wing, devoid of engine pylons disrupting the airflow. In addition, the wing also sported full-length leading edge slats to maximise the wing area during slower phases of flight. These factors allowed the extra lift performance required in the more challenging climate and altitude situations. In addition, it gave the VC10 good short-field performance too.
Another factor that B.O.A.C. needed to consider when looking at its route network was the condition of runways at some of its African destinations. Some of these were less than top-grade and could include rough surfaces as well as objects on the runway. To cater to this, Vickers added wider low-pressure tyres to deal with the rougher surfaces. The location of the engines on the rear fuselage means they are higher off the ground than if they were suspended under the wings meaning that they are less likely to ingest foreign objects thrown up from the runway.
British Airways Super VC-10 registration G-ASGI.
These features were very successful in making the VC10 a perfect aircraft for many of B.O.A.C.s route destinations but may have been a little too specific to appeal to the wider market. Whilst the competing Boeing 707 and Douglas DC8 did not have the same short-field capabilities as the VC10, their market uptake soon persuaded major airports to upgrade their runways to accommodate the new airliners. Thus the VC10 advantage was lost.
For passengers, and I count myself lucky to have been one, the VC10 was a great aircraft to fly. The main draw card was the quietness in the cabin. With four jet engines on the rear of the aircraft, the sound they made was left behind. B.O.A.C. used the slogan, "Try a little VC-Tenderness".
The assembly of the VC10 was a detailed and complex process that required a high level of precision and expertise. The process began with the construction of the fuselage, which was made from a series of aluminum alloy sections. The sections were carefully joined together using riveting and welding techniques, and the cockpit, tail section, and wings were then added to the fuselage.
Once the basic structure of the aircraft was complete, the installation of the aircraft's systems and components began. This included the hydraulic, electrical, and fuel systems, as well as the engines and landing gear. Each system was installed with meticulous attention to detail, and every component was tested to ensure that it met the highest standards of safety and reliability.
One of the most challenging aspects of the assembly process was the installation of the aircraft's engines. The VC10 was powered by four Rolls-Royce Conway engines, each of which weighed over 6,000 pounds. The engines had to be carefully aligned with the aircraft's fuselage and secured in place using a series of bolts and brackets.
ASSEMBLY
The VC 10 was powered by 4 Roll Royce Conway engines mounted on the rear fuselage.
Once the systems and components were installed, the aircraft was painted in the livery of the airline that had ordered it. This was typically done using a combination of spray-painting and hand-painting techniques, with each detail carefully applied by skilled workers.
The final stage of the assembly process was the testing and certification of the aircraft. This involved a series of ground and flight tests to ensure that the aircraft was safe, reliable, and met all of the regulatory requirements. The tests were carried out by highly trained engineers and technicians, who meticulously checked every system and component to ensure that they were functioning correctly.
Overall, the assembly of the VC10 was a complex and challenging process that required a high level of expertise and attention to detail. However, the end result was an aircraft that was admired for its range, speed, and passenger comfort. Today, the VC10 is remembered as a symbol of British engineering excellence and is celebrated by aviation enthusiasts around the world.
SPECIFICATIONS
The Vickers VC-10, produced by Vickers-Armstrong and later the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC), stands as a testament to engineering excellence in the world of aviation. From its inaugural flight in June 1962, the VC-10 showcased remarkable technical prowess, pushing the boundaries of performance and efficiency. Let's delve into the technical specifications that made the VC-10 a true marvel of the skies.
Performance:
The VC-10 was designed to meet the demanding requirements of BOAC, enabling operations from short airfields in Africa with high altitudes and temperatures. This led to an aircraft with exceptional performance capabilities. In fact, the VC-10 set the sub-sonic record for a trans-Atlantic crossing, completing the journey in a remarkable 5 hours and 1 minute, a record that still stands to this day.
London Heathrow Airport in 1965 with a BOAC VC-10, BOAC 707 and Pan Am 707s.
Variants and Capacities:
The VC-10 family comprised several variants, each tailored to specific operational needs. The standard variant, Type 1101, served as the backbone of BOAC's fleet, with 12 meticulously crafted aircraft reaching completion. Additionally, variants like the Super VC-10 (Type 1151 and Type 1154) offered increased fuselage length, take-off weight, passenger capacity, and more powerful engines. These advancements aimed to reduce seat-per-mile costs, particularly on trans-Atlantic services.
Military Applications:
Beyond its commercial success, the VC-10 also found purpose within the Royal Air Force (RAF). The RAF operated the VC-10 in various roles, including transport and air-to-air refuelling. Modified versions, such as the VC-10 C.1, C.1K, K.2, K.3, and K.4, were tailored to meet the specific requirements of the RAF. These conversions allowed the VC-10 to serve as a reliable and efficient tanker aircraft, supporting the strategic operations of the RAF.
Powerplant:
The heart of the VC-10's power came from its four rear-mounted Conway engines. These engines were not only powerful but also contributed to a remarkably quiet passenger cabin, enhancing the overall travel experience. The increased thrust generated by the engines allowed the VC-10 to achieve superior take-off performance and maintain excellent cruising speeds, making it a leader in its class.
Design Features:
The VC-10's design was both visually striking and functionally efficient. Its soaring T-tail configuration not only provided a distinct appearance but also contributed to improved stability and control during flight. This design choice, coupled with meticulous engineering, allowed the VC-10 to manoeuvre with precision and grace, even under challenging conditions.
BOAC Vickers Super VC10 registration G-ASGC showing off the elegant T tail and rear mounted Conway engines.
The Vickers VC-10 stands as a testament to the ingenuity and technical excellence of the aviation industry. With its remarkable performance, powerful Conway engines, and innovative design features, the VC-10 was a true trailblazer in the world of commercial and military aviation. Despite limited global appeal due to its specific design requirements, the VC-10 left an indelible mark on the history of flight, setting records and providing exceptional service to passengers and air forces alike. The legacy of the VC-10 continues to inspire awe and admiration for its remarkable technical specifications that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the skies.
BOAC Cunard Vickers Super VC10 registration G-ASGC.
Vickers VC-10 Specs Table
| Type | VC-10 Type 1101 | Super VC-10 Type 1151 | VC-10 C.1 Type 1106 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew | 3 | ||
| Passengers | 115-135 | 139-163 | 150 troops or 78 stretchers |
| Cabin Width(Internal) | 3.50 metres (11 feet 6 inches) | ||
| Cabin Height(Internal) | 2.26 metres (7 feet 5 inches) | ||
| Cabin Length(Internal) | 28.14 metres (92 feet 4 inches) | 32.00 metres (105 feet 0 inches) | 28.14 metres (92 feet 4 inches) |
| Cargo Hold Volume | 42.2 metres3 (1,490 feet3) | 42.2 metres3 (1,490 feet3) | 54.6 metres3 (1,930 feet3) |
| Aircraft Length | 48.36 metres(158 feet 8 inches) | 48.36 metres(171 feet 8 inches) | 48.36 metres(158 feet 8 inches) |
| Tail Height | 12.04 metres (39 feet 6 inches) | ||
| Main Wing Span | 44.55 metres (146 feet 2 inches) | ||
| Main Wing Area | 264.8 metres2 (2,851 feet2) Type 1102/03 272.4 metres2 (2,932 feet2) |
264.8 metres2 (2,851 feet2) | |
| Tail Plane Span | 13.36 metres (43 feet 10 inches) | ||
| Tail Plane Area | 59.3 metres2 (638 feet2) | ||
| Wheelbase | 20.09 metres (65 feet 11 inches) | 21.98 metres (72 feet 1 inches) | 20.09 metres (65 feet 11 inches) |
| Wheel Track | 6.53 metres (21 feet 5 inches) | ||
| Operating Empty Weight | 66,670 kg (146,980 lb) | 71,137 kg (156,828 lb) | - |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 141,520 kg (312,000 lbs) | 151,953 kg (335,000 lbs) | 150,953 kg (322,000 lbs) |
| Max Zero Fuel | 85,004 kg (187,400 lbs) | 97,524 kg (215,000 lbs) | - |
| Max Landing Weight | 97,978 kg (216,000 lbs) | 107,503 kg (237,000 lbs) | 71,628 kg (235,000 lbs) |
| Max Payload | 18,335 kg (40,420 lbs) | 26,369 kg (58,172 lbs) | 26,037 kg (57,400 lbs) |
| Engines x 2 | 4x Rolls Royce Conway RCo42 | 4x Rolls Royce Conway RCo43 | 4x Rolls Royce Conway RCo43 |
| Engines Thrust | 93.4 kN (21,000 lbf) | 100.0 kN (22,500 lbf) | 100.0 kN (22,500 lbf) |
| Speed (Max) | Mach 0.76, 504 kn, 580 mph, 933 kph, | ||
| Service Ceiling | 38,000 feet (11,582 metres) Type 1102/03 43,000 feet (13,106 Metres) |
38,000 feet (11,582 metres) | - |
| Take-off Run | 2,524 metres (8,280 feet) | 2,667 metres (8,750 feet) | 2,560 metres (8,400 feet) |
| Landing Run | 1,945 metres (6,380 feet) | 2,088 metres (6,850 feet) | 1,981 metres (6,500 feet) |
| Range Fully Laden | 5,850 nm, 6,733 miles, 10,836 km, | 5,960 nm, 6,859 miles, 11,038 km, | 6,260 nm, 7,204 miles, 11,594 km, |
History.
The Vickers VC-10 stands as an iconic aircraft that revolutionized the world of aviation with its remarkable technical achievements and enduring legacy. From its maiden flight in 1962 to its final mission in 2013, the VC-10 left an indelible mark on the industry. This article delves into the captivating history of the VC-10, exploring its inception, detailed design features, technical prowess, operational milestones, and lasting impact.
Inception and Design:
The VC-10's journey began within the confines of Vickers-Armstrong, a renowned British aircraft manufacturer. In response to the British Overseas Airways Corporation's (BOAC) rigorous specifications, Sir George Edwards led a team of visionary engineers and designers to create an aircraft that would not only meet but surpass these demands.
BOAC Vickers VC10.
To achieve the performance requirements, the design team implemented several groundbreaking features. The VC-10's design incorporated a slender, swept-back wing that allowed for efficient high-altitude flight and increased fuel efficiency. This innovative wing design, coupled with powerful rear-mounted Rolls-Royce Conway engines, provided the necessary thrust and reduced cabin noise, ensuring a smooth and comfortable flying experience for passengers.
In addition to its sleek wing design, the VC-10 featured a distinctive T-tail configuration. The vertical stabilizer and horizontal stabilizer formed a "T" shape at the rear of the aircraft, improving stability and reducing drag. This design choice enhanced the VC-10's aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to its exceptional performance in both speed and fuel economy.
Vickers VC10-C1K Royal Air Force RAF.
The VC-10's interior was meticulously crafted to offer passengers an unparalleled level of comfort. The rear-mounted engines minimized cabin noise, creating a serene environment during flight. BOAC capitalized on this feature in their advertising campaigns, using the slogan "Try a little VC-Tenderness" to highlight the VC-10's quiet and tranquil cabin experience.
Commercial Service:
BOAC, later known as British Airways, became the first major operator of the VC-10. From April 1964 to 1975, the VC-10 served as BOAC's flagship aircraft, connecting passengers across the globe with style and sophistication. Despite its limited production run of just 12 completed aircraft, the VC-10 garnered consistent popularity among passengers for its spacious interiors, luxurious amenities, and superb performance.
VC10 Interior of the economy class cabin.
Legacy and Enduring Impact: The VC-10's impact transcends its operational lifespan. Its technical innovations, remarkable performance, and adaptability set new standards in aviation. The aircraft's enduring legacy is embodied in its record-breaking transatlantic crossing time and its unwavering popularity among passengers. The VC-10's presence in the skies for over five decades is a testament to its longevity and the admiration it garnered from aviation enthusiasts worldwide.
Vickers-Super-VC10-British Caledonian(B. Cal.)-BUA(British United Airways).
To achieve the performance requirements, the design team implemented several groundbreaking features. The VC-10's design incorporated a slender, swept-back wing that allowed for efficient high-altitude flight and increased fuel efficiency. This innovative wing design, coupled with powerful rear-mounted Rolls-Royce Conway engines, provided the necessary thrust and reduced cabin noise, ensuring a smooth and comfortable flying experience for passengers.
In addition to its sleek wing design, the VC-10 featured a distinctive T-tail configuration. The vertical stabilizer and horizontal stabilizer formed a "T" shape at the rear of the aircraft, improving stability and reducing drag. This design choice enhanced the VC-10's aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to its exceptional performance in both speed and fuel economy.
British Caledonian ('BCal') Vickers Standard VC10 (Series 1100) G-ATDJ.
To meet BOAC's specific requirements for operating from short airfields in Africa, the VC-10 incorporated a robust landing gear system with reinforced tires and brakes. The aircraft's undercarriage was designed to withstand the harsh conditions of hot and high-altitude airports, allowing the VC-10 to serve destinations that were previously inaccessible to other aircraft.
Technological Breakthroughs:
The VC-10's technical achievements were truly groundbreaking for its era. Its advanced aerodynamic design, combined with the power of the Conway engines, enabled the aircraft to achieve impressive speeds while maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. This remarkable performance was showcased by the VC-10's record-breaking sub-sonic transatlantic crossing time of just 5 hours and 1 minute, a feat that remains unmatched to this day.
Vickers VC10 Cockpit Flight deck.
Beyond BOAC, other prominent airlines such as British United Airways, East African Airways, Ghana Airways, and Air Malawi recognized the VC-10's capabilities and incorporated it into their fleets. The aircraft's range, efficiency, and ability to operate from challenging airfields made it an ideal choice for airlines serving diverse destinations.
Military Utilization:
The VC-10's versatility extended beyond commercial aviation, finding a crucial role within the Royal Air Force (RAF). Recognizing the aircraft's potential, the RAF acquired a fleet of VC-10s for transport and inflight refuelling operations. The VC-10's adaptability was evident in its conversions, resulting in models such as the VC-10 C1 (later designated C1K), VC-10 K2, K3, and K4. These conversions solidified the VC-10's reputation as a reliable and versatile asset, serving the RAF with distinction for several decades.
Vickers VC10 cabin. Those were the days.
Orders and Deliveries.
Vickers Super VC10 East African Airways 1971 Reg 5H-MOG.
Perhaps one of the most distinctive roles for the VC10 was its service with the Royal Air Force. Initially procuring 14 VC10 C.1 (later designated C.1K) aircraft, the RAF utilized them as transport aircraft under Transport Command. The VC10's spacious interior allowed for the transportation of troops, equipment, and cargo. However, the story didn't end there. The RAF later converted additional VC10 and Super VC10 aircraft into air-to-air refueling tankers, designated as the VC10 K.2, K.3, and K.4 variants. These tanker aircraft served the RAF with distinction for many years, supporting aerial refueling operations.
The operators of the VC10 played a vital role in showcasing the aircraft's capabilities and contributing to its success. From commercial airlines like BOAC, British United Airways, and African carriers to the military application by the RAF, each operator recognized the VC10's unique features and found value in its exceptional performance. Collectively, they solidified the VC10's reputation as a reliable, versatile, and highly regarded aircraft in aviation history.
Ghana Airways VC10 Reg 9G-ABO.
British United Airways (later British Caledonian) was another notable operator of the VC10. They ordered the aircraft with a large forward cargo door, making it suitable for both passenger and cargo transportation. The VC10's versatility appealed to British United Airways, and their order led to additional sales to airlines such as Ghana Airways and East African Airways.
The VC10's capabilities also attracted the attention of national carriers in Africa. East African Airways, Ghana Airways, and Air Malawi all operated the VC10, utilizing its unique characteristics to serve their routes effectively. The aircraft's ability to operate from short airfields in challenging environments, such as those in Africa, made it an ideal choice for these operators.
Vickers VC10 Air Malawi Reg 7Q-YKH.
The Vickers VC10, with its impressive performance and unique design, found service with several operators, each contributing to its legacy in their own way. While British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) was the primary operator, other airlines and even the Royal Air Force (RAF) utilized the VC10 for various purposes.
BOAC later merged into British Airways and operated the VC10 from April 1964 to 1975. As the launch customer, BOAC received the "Standard" variant of the VC10, which adhered to their specific specifications. The airline recognized the aircraft's capabilities and deployed them on trans-Atlantic routes, achieving notable accomplishments such as setting the sub-sonic record for a Trans-Atlantic crossing with a time of just 5 hours and 1 minute. BOAC's passengers experienced the VC10's quiet and comfortable interior, further enhancing their flying experience.
