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Folland Fo144 Gnat T1 before its maiden flight at Chilbolton
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Folland Fo144 Gnat T1 before its maiden flight at Chilbolton
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Media ID 9904029
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library) / Mary Evans Picture Library
Chilbolton Fo144 Folland Gnat Maiden
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this historic photograph, the Folland Fo144 Gnat T1 stands proudly on the runway of Chilbolton Airfield, moments before embarking on its maiden flight on March 27, 1954. The sleek and agile jet trainer, designed by the Folland Aircraft Limited, was a significant development in the world of aviation, marking a new era in supersonic flight training. The Folland Gnat T1 was a two-seat, single-engine, delta-winged jet trainer, developed primarily for the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Royal Navy (RN) to replace the older de Havilland Vampire T11 as a jet trainer. The aircraft's innovative design boasted a top speed of over 600 miles per hour, making it the fastest trainer in the world at the time. The photo captures the excitement and anticipation of the moment before the Gnat T1 takes to the skies for the first time. The runway is bathed in sunlight, casting long shadows as the aircraft's wings reflect the light. The crew, dressed in their flight suits, stand nearby, ready to assist in the maiden flight. The engine hums softly in the background, a sure sign that the moment is at hand. The Folland Gnat T1 went on to become a beloved and successful aircraft, serving in the military for over three decades and setting numerous records in the process. Its legacy continues to inspire aviation enthusiasts and pilots alike, as a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the engineers and designers who brought it to life. This photograph is a rare glimpse into a moment of aviation history, capturing the essence of the excitement and anticipation that comes with the maiden flight of a new aircraft. It is a reminder of the thrill of flight and the enduring allure of the skies.
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