Embedded Files
Defunct - W
Walcot Air Line
Walcot Air Line
1947 - 1949
Main base: Croydon
Airline designators: n/a
Walcot Air Line Ltd. was a short-lived charter operator based at Croydon Airport. Established in May 1930, two all-metal Junkers F 13 monoplanes, G-AAGU and G-AAZK, were used for charter flights between the UK and continental Europe. On 21 July 1930, G-AAZK flying from Le Touquet to Croydon, broke up in mid-air over Meopham, Kent, killing pilot Lt.Colonel George Lockhart Henderson (whose aircraft it was on loan), the co-pilot and the four passengers, all prominent members of British society. In January 1931, the resulting investigation led to what is generally regarded as the first official publication of an aircraft accident report in the UK. The Aeronautical Research Committee concluded the probable cause was 'failure of the tailplane under severe buffeting from air eddies produced by the centre section of certain low-wing monoplanes when approaching the stalling attitude'.
The company subsequently moved to Heston, reportedly in September 1930, but appears to have ceased operations following the accident. The precise circumstances and timing of its closure require further confirmation.
Fleet history
Junkers F 13G-AAGU 26/05/1930 > 00/12/1932G-AAZK 26/05/1930 > 21/07/1930 [ on loan from Henderson ]
Fleet history
Junkers F 13G-AAGU 26/05/1930 > 00/12/1932G-AAZK 26/05/1930 > 21/07/1930 [ on loan from Henderson ]
Wells Chartair
Wells Chartair
1964 - 1973
Main base: Biggin HillIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
Wells Chartair Ltd was an independent light air-taxi and charter operator established at Biggin Hill Airport and registered as a company on 17 July 1964 by Mr and Mrs Wells. Two Cessna 150s initially operated flight training, and were followed by a Cessna 172 in 1965 which enabled a limited amount of air taxi and general charter work. Additional Cessna 150s and a 172 subsequently joined the fleet. The company suffered the loss of two airframes (G-ARWP and G-ATRJ) in accidents that happened within 48 hours of each other in July 1967.
Wells Chartair continued to operate light air-taxi work across the UK until around May 1973, when the remaining Cessna 172 was sold on. A Cessna 150 remaned registered until April 1977.
v Tap for Fleet details v
v Tap for Fleet details v
Fleet history
Reims/Cessna 150G-ASHF 03/06/1965 > 22/03/1968G-ASLB 08/09/1964 > 22/04/1968G-ASMW 07/09/1964 > 12/02/1970G-ATRJ 01/06/1966 > 15/08/1967G-AVCU 20/10/1967 > 05/09/1972G-AWUI 02/03/1970 > 22/04/1977
Cessna 172CG-ARWP 02/03/1965 > 15/08/1967
Reims Cessna F.172GG-ATKT 11/08/1967 > 11/05/1973
Reims/Cessna 150G-ASHF 03/06/1965 > 22/03/1968G-ASLB 08/09/1964 > 22/04/1968G-ASMW 07/09/1964 > 12/02/1970G-ATRJ 01/06/1966 > 15/08/1967G-AVCU 20/10/1967 > 05/09/1972G-AWUI 02/03/1970 > 22/04/1977
Cessna 172CG-ARWP 02/03/1965 > 15/08/1967
Reims Cessna F.172GG-ATKT 11/08/1967 > 11/05/1973
Wessex Aviation
Wessex Aviation
1962 - 1973
Main base: Eastleigh Airport, SouthamptonIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
Wessex Aviation Ltd. was formed at Southampton's Eastleigh Airport in the summer of 1962, initially operating a Piper Aztec and a single Comanche. The company carried out air taxi flights from numerous southern airfields, with the Aztec also flying charters to northern France. Two Piper Twin Comanches were subsequently added to the fleet that enabled air taxi operations and executive charter flights to continue until, presumably, the remaining Twin Comanche was sold on in late 1970.
v Tap for Fleet details v
Fleet historyPiper PA-24-250 ComancheG-ARGS 19/07/1962 > 26/08/1963Piper PA-23 Aztec 250AG-AREE 22/05/1962 > 06/10/1965Piper PA-30 Twin Comanche 160G-ASRH 27/01/1969 > 07/11/1970G-ASRO 11/06/1964 > 26/06/1968
West Coast Air Services
West Coast Air Services
1939 - 1947
> BEA
Main base: Croydon & Liverpool AirportsAirline designators: n/a
West Coast Air Services Ltd was the legal renaming of Blackpool and West Coast Air Services Ltd on 6 December 1937. The remaining fleet consisted of one DH.86 and one Dragon Rapide operating scheduled services linking Dublin with Bristol, Croydon, Liverpool, and the Isle of Man in close association with Aer Lingus. The company relocated its primary operations from Blackpool to Croydon Airport by the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939. Following an initial wartime suspension of civil aviation, the airline conducted sporadic operations until August 1940, when its aircraft and routes were formally placed under the umbrella of the government's Associated Airways Joint Committee (AAJC). West Coast Air Services maintained limited scheduled flights throughout the war using a pooled fleet shared from Railway Air Services and Aer Lingus.
At the end of the war, the company continued its scheduled operations in close association with Railway Air Services, including the deployment of Avro 19s on the pre-war Croydon to Dublin route. Despite doubling the frequency of this premier service in April 1946, all schedules were suspended on 30 June 1946. Following the post-war Civil Aviation Act, the AAJC was dissolved and West Coast Air Services officially wound up commercial operations on 1 February 1947, with its assets and remaining fleet being absorbed into the newly created British European Airways (BEA).
v Tap for Fleet details v
v Tap for Fleet details v
Fleet history
de Havilland DH.86B ExpressG-ADYH 13/12/1937 > 22/10/1946
de Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapidecontinued from Blackpool and West Coast Air Services LtdG-AENO 06/12/1937 > 10/02/1938G-AERN 06/12/1937 > 31/01/1947 > BEA
de Havilland DH.86B ExpressG-ADYH 13/12/1937 > 22/10/1946
de Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapidecontinued from Blackpool and West Coast Air Services LtdG-AENO 06/12/1937 > 10/02/1938G-AERN 06/12/1937 > 31/01/1947 > BEA
West Cumberland Air Services
West Cumberland Air Services
1947 - 1949
Main base: Kingstown Airport, Carlisle
Airline designators: n/a
West Cumberland Air Services Ltd. commenced operations in March 1947, initially with one Auster Autocrat, flying charters from the West Cumbrian airfields of Silloth, Winscales and Workington. A permanent base was established at Carlisle's Kingstown Airport at the beginning of 1948 after the company acquired a Dragon Rapide (G-AKNN), although this inturn was sold in May to Astral Aviation. A second Rapide (G-AKOC), obtained in March, began a summer scheduled passenger service between Carlisle and the Isle of Man in June 1948, under a B.E.A. associate agreement. Ad-hoc charter flights continued until around May 1949 when the company ceased all operations. The Lancashire Aircraft Company had taken over the IoM route, having acquired Astral Aviation.
Fleet history
Auster J/1 AutocratG-AJAB 09/04/1947 > 10/06/1949 [ Registered to company owner ]
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AKNN 08/12/1947 > 20/05/1948 > Astral AviationG-AKOC 18/03/1948 > 10/06/1949 [ Registered to company owner ]
Percival Proctor IIZ7213 17/02/1949 > CofA not issued / did not enter service
Auster J/1 AutocratG-AJAB 09/04/1947 > 10/06/1949 [ Registered to company owner ]
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AKNN 08/12/1947 > 20/05/1948 > Astral AviationG-AKOC 18/03/1948 > 10/06/1949 [ Registered to company owner ]
Percival Proctor IIZ7213 17/02/1949 > CofA not issued / did not enter service
Westair International
Westair International
1988 - 1989
Main base: Stansted (STN / EGSS)
IATA: -- ICAO: WIL
Callsign: WEATWAY
Westair International was established at Norwich Airport in September 1988, having leased two Handley Page HPR-7 Heralds. They operated between numerous UK airports to the Isle of Man, Brussels and Maastricht. The company ceased operations in September 1989 due to lack of work and completely closed in November 1989.
Fleet history
Handley Page HPR-7 Herald 214[ Leased from Nordic Oil Services ]G-ATIGG-BEYK
Fleet history
Handley Page HPR-7 Herald 214[ Leased from Nordic Oil Services ]G-ATIGG-BEYK
Western Airways
Western Airways
1932 - 1978
Main base: Western-super-MareAirline designators: n/a
Founded in 1932 by aircraft dealer Norman Wallace George Edgar, Western Airways was an airline based at Weston-super-Mare. Between 1932 and 1940, Western Airways transformed UK regional aviation. By offering low fares and high-frequency, short-hop flights, it held the title of the world's busiest airline for a brief period, operating up to 58 daily services.
v Tap for Fleet details and historical timeline v
v Tap for Fleet details and historical timeline v
Fleet History
de Havilland DH.83 Fox MothG-ABYO September 1932 (Norman Edgar) > Weston September 1933 > 07/06/1935
de Havilland DH.84 DragonG-ACAO 08/07/1938 > 02/04/1940G-ACJT 16/05/1935 > 09/02/1939G-ACLE 18/05/1939 > 02/04/1940G-ACMJ 01/07/1938 > 02/04/1940G-ACPX 23/07/1938 > 02/04/1940
de Havilland DH.86B ExpressG-AETM 18/05/1939 > 31/01/1940
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-ACTU 01/11/1938 > 04/06/1940G-ADBV 01/11/1938 > 12/01/1940G-ADDD 01/11/1938 > 04/06/1940G-AFSO 21/04/1939 > 04/01/1940
de Havilland DH.90 DragonflyG-AEDH 15/02/1939 > 08/03/1940
Percival Q.6G-AFIX 18/11/1939 > 02/04/1940G-AFVC 30/06/1939 > 10/05/1940
de Havilland DH.83 Fox MothG-ABYO September 1932 (Norman Edgar) > Weston September 1933 > 07/06/1935
de Havilland DH.84 DragonG-ACAO 08/07/1938 > 02/04/1940G-ACJT 16/05/1935 > 09/02/1939G-ACLE 18/05/1939 > 02/04/1940G-ACMJ 01/07/1938 > 02/04/1940G-ACPX 23/07/1938 > 02/04/1940
de Havilland DH.86B ExpressG-AETM 18/05/1939 > 31/01/1940
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-ACTU 01/11/1938 > 04/06/1940G-ADBV 01/11/1938 > 12/01/1940G-ADDD 01/11/1938 > 04/06/1940G-AFSO 21/04/1939 > 04/01/1940
de Havilland DH.90 DragonflyG-AEDH 15/02/1939 > 08/03/1940
Percival Q.6G-AFIX 18/11/1939 > 02/04/1940G-AFVC 30/06/1939 > 10/05/1940
Historical timeline
26/09/1932: Norman Edgar launched a twice-daily air service, utilising a de Havilland Fox Moth, between Bristol (Whitchurch) Airport and Cardiff (Splott) Airport, which became a popular route for Welsh miners on holiday.
With business booming, Edgar formed a new company, Norman Edgar (Western Airways) Ltd based at Whitchurch, operating a de Havilland Dragon.
In January 1933 Edgar approached the council of Weston-super-Mare to finance the construction of a new airfield, and construction commenced in February 1936. The terminal was constructed using a former WWI timber hospital.
1935: The airline expanded its network, offering continental services to Le Touquet and Paris, in addition to regional stops in Bournemouth and Birmingham.
May 1936: Weston Airfield officially opened on Locking Moor, with Western Airways managing the hub. By end of July 1936 the company had fully relocated to Weston and their fleet had expanded to cover both charter and pleasure flights.
January 1938: The Straight Corporation acquired a controlling share in Norman Edgar (Western Airways) Ltd and the company was renamed Western Airways Ltd. At this time, the company was operating 58 services a day, the highest frequency of flights of any airline in the world. The Cardiff–Weston air ferry had carried over 21,000 passengers alone.
10/08/1938: Norman Edgar left the company
1939: The Air Transport Licensing Authority granted Western Airways a monopoly for airline flights out of Cardiff. The fleet was further expanded.
1940: With the onset of World War II, The Air Ministry requisitioned Weston Airfield to create RAF Weston-super-Mare, bringing an end to the airline's peak pre-war expansion. The majority of their aircraft were impressed. The company diversified and rapidly expanded their Maintenance facilities to repair, maintain and modify a wide range of aircraft. Work also included manufacturing of aircraft components and the refurbishment and conversion of aircraft.
1946: Western Airways' airline operations restarted again in July 1946 with the Weston > Cardiff air ferry route, alongside Cambrian Airways. Western Airlines withdrew from the service at the end of the holiday season in 1949 to concentrate on their parts manufacturing operations, especially in the Bristol Freighter production.
Western would continue to operate Weston Airport and service and maintain a number of private aircraft. Pleasure flights were still popular. With activity declining, and the runway requiring resurfacing, the airport's licence was relinquished at the end of 1978. All Weston staff were made redundant.
26/09/1932: Norman Edgar launched a twice-daily air service, utilising a de Havilland Fox Moth, between Bristol (Whitchurch) Airport and Cardiff (Splott) Airport, which became a popular route for Welsh miners on holiday.
With business booming, Edgar formed a new company, Norman Edgar (Western Airways) Ltd based at Whitchurch, operating a de Havilland Dragon.
In January 1933 Edgar approached the council of Weston-super-Mare to finance the construction of a new airfield, and construction commenced in February 1936. The terminal was constructed using a former WWI timber hospital.
1935: The airline expanded its network, offering continental services to Le Touquet and Paris, in addition to regional stops in Bournemouth and Birmingham.
May 1936: Weston Airfield officially opened on Locking Moor, with Western Airways managing the hub. By end of July 1936 the company had fully relocated to Weston and their fleet had expanded to cover both charter and pleasure flights.
January 1938: The Straight Corporation acquired a controlling share in Norman Edgar (Western Airways) Ltd and the company was renamed Western Airways Ltd. At this time, the company was operating 58 services a day, the highest frequency of flights of any airline in the world. The Cardiff–Weston air ferry had carried over 21,000 passengers alone.
10/08/1938: Norman Edgar left the company
1939: The Air Transport Licensing Authority granted Western Airways a monopoly for airline flights out of Cardiff. The fleet was further expanded.
1940: With the onset of World War II, The Air Ministry requisitioned Weston Airfield to create RAF Weston-super-Mare, bringing an end to the airline's peak pre-war expansion. The majority of their aircraft were impressed. The company diversified and rapidly expanded their Maintenance facilities to repair, maintain and modify a wide range of aircraft. Work also included manufacturing of aircraft components and the refurbishment and conversion of aircraft.
1946: Western Airways' airline operations restarted again in July 1946 with the Weston > Cardiff air ferry route, alongside Cambrian Airways. Western Airlines withdrew from the service at the end of the holiday season in 1949 to concentrate on their parts manufacturing operations, especially in the Bristol Freighter production.
Western would continue to operate Weston Airport and service and maintain a number of private aircraft. Pleasure flights were still popular. With activity declining, and the runway requiring resurfacing, the airport's licence was relinquished at the end of 1978. All Weston staff were made redundant.
Westminster Airways
Westminster Airways
1946 - 1949
Main base: Croydon > BlackbusheAirline designators: n/a
Westminster Airways was formed in 1946 by a group of MPs led by Air Commodore A.V. Harvey, to operate air charters. The company later acquired freighter aircraft to assist in the Berlin Airlift.
The company ceased flight operations towards the end of 1949, due to a reduced charter market
v Tap for operational details & Fleet History v
The company ceased flight operations towards the end of 1949, due to a reduced charter market
v Tap for operational details & Fleet History v
Fleet History
Airspeed AS.65 Consul
G-AHMC 14/06/1946 > 12/12/1947
G-AIBC 29/07/1946 > 12/12/1947
G-AICZ 18/07/1946 > 12/12/1947
G-AIIN 31/10/1946 > 25/09/1947
G-AJLI 25/04/1947 > 10/12/1949
G-AJNG 27/06/1947 > 23/11/1948
Avro Nineteen Srs I
G-AHYO 10/08/1946 > 27/01/1947
de Havilland DH.104 Dove I
G-AKET 21/08/1947 > 01/06/1949
Douglas C-47A Dakota
G-AJAY 13/01/1947 > 05/06/1950
G-AJAZ 13/01/1947 > 03/12/1948
Handley Page HP.70 Halton 1/Halifax 8
G-AHDL 13/02/1949 > 01/04/1949
G-AHDM 15/11/1948 > 18/09/1950
G-AHDV 31/03/1949 > 01/01/1951
G-AJNW 27/04/1949 > 23/10/1950
Historical timeline
05/06/1946: Westminster Airways was registered.
The company initially carried out light charter work from Heston aerodrome.
June 1946: The company acquired the first of several Airspeed Consuls, which were flown from Croydon airport. A maintenance facility had been set up at nearby RAF Kenley, which was also serving as their base.
1947: The company relocated to Blackbushe Airport and acquired 2no. Douglas DC-3s that would later be used in the Berlin Airlift.
1948: 3no. Handley Page Halton freighters replaced the DC-3s and subsequently operated as tanker aircraft to carry diesel fuel to Germany.
The company ceased flight operations towards the end of 1949, due to a reduced charter market as well as government policies and legislative restrictions imposed on air charter companies. Their fleet was gradually sold off.
They continued with engineering services having established Westminster Airways Servicing, specialising in conversion, maintenance and overhaul of aircraft. Aviation Servicing Ltd acquired Westminster’s facilities at Blackbushe a couple of years later and moved the business to Gosport. The company went into liquidation in December 1958.
05/06/1946: Westminster Airways was registered.
The company initially carried out light charter work from Heston aerodrome.
June 1946: The company acquired the first of several Airspeed Consuls, which were flown from Croydon airport. A maintenance facility had been set up at nearby RAF Kenley, which was also serving as their base.
1947: The company relocated to Blackbushe Airport and acquired 2no. Douglas DC-3s that would later be used in the Berlin Airlift.
1948: 3no. Handley Page Halton freighters replaced the DC-3s and subsequently operated as tanker aircraft to carry diesel fuel to Germany.
The company ceased flight operations towards the end of 1949, due to a reduced charter market as well as government policies and legislative restrictions imposed on air charter companies. Their fleet was gradually sold off.
They continued with engineering services having established Westminster Airways Servicing, specialising in conversion, maintenance and overhaul of aircraft. Aviation Servicing Ltd acquired Westminster’s facilities at Blackbushe a couple of years later and moved the business to Gosport. The company went into liquidation in December 1958.
Westward Airways
Westward Airways
1968 - 1970
Main base: Newquay
IATA: -- ICAO: ---
Callsign: -
Westward Airways was an independent airline formed in late 1968 by former BOAC pilot Captain Howard Levett Fry. Based initially at Newquay Airport, Cornwall, the company aimed to establish a network of scheduled regional services linking the West Country with London and other destinations operating Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft. A scheduled service connecting Newquay and Plymouth with London's Gatwick and Heathrow airports started in mid-1969 along with its short-haul shuttle between Heathrow and Gatwick, offering passengers a direct air connection between the two airports. Despite its innovative approach and initial passenger traffic, the airline struggled with high operating costs.
After carrying nearly 5,200 passengers during its first six months, the company was unable to secure the additional funding needed to continue, and ceased operations on 16 October 1970.
v Tap for Fleet details and historical timeline v
v Tap for Fleet details and historical timeline v
Fleet ListBritten-Norman BN-2A IslanderG-AWNU Leased from Thurston AviationG-AXDH Leased from Douglas Arnold AviationG-AXFC 20/06/1969 > 31/12/1970G-AXHE 26/03/1970 > 24/06/1971G-AXKB Leased from Loganair G-AΧΧΗ Leased from Northern Executive Aviation
Historical Timeline
Late 1968 — Company formed
Captain Howard Levett Fry, a former Imperial Airways and BOAC pilot, establishes Westward Airways Ltd at Newquay, Cornwall. The airline plans to operate scheduled services linking the West Country with London using Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft.
Early 1969 — Route applications
The company seeks the necessary licences to operate its proposed regional network, including a shuttle service between Heathrow and Gatwick airports.
June 1969 — First aircraft enters service
The Britten-Norman BN-2A Islander G-AXFC joins the fleet, becoming the principal aircraft for the airline's initial operations.
25 June 1969 — Heathrow–Gatwick shuttle inaugurated
Westward Airways launches its six-flights-daily shuttle between Heathrow and Gatwick. The approximately 25-mile journey takes around 15 minutes, with a single fare of £4.
1 July 1969 — Scheduled West Country–London services begin
A daily service links Newquay and Plymouth with Gatwick and Heathrow, combining regional passenger flights with the inter-airport shuttle.
August 1969 — Fleet expanded
A second Islander, G-AXHE, joins the fleet, allowing the airline to expand its scheduled services.
Late 1969 — Network extended
Westward Airways develops services connecting Gatwick with Plymouth, Newquay and St Mary's in the Isles of Scilly.
23 February 1970 — Aircraft accident
One of the airline's Islanders is badly damaged while landing at St Mary's airfield, placing additional pressure on its operations and finances involving leased aircraft.
May 1970 — Jersey service introduced
A scheduled Plymouth–Jersey service is introduced as the company seeks to broaden its regional network.
Summer 1970 — Further route adjustments
Bournemouth becomes an intermediate stop on a Plymouth–Heathrow service. The Heathrow–Gatwick shuttle also continues for a time, although the airline faces increasing financial difficulties.
22 August 1970 — Shuttle service ends
The Heathrow–Gatwick air shuttle makes its final reported flights, following a period of disrupted operations and attempts to maintain the service.
16 October 1970 — Airline ceases operations
Unable to secure the additional finance required to continue, Westward Airways closes after approximately 15 months of flying. The airline had carried nearly 5,200 passengers during its first six months.
Westward Airways (Land's End) Ltd
Westward Airways (Land's End) Ltd
1971 - 2009
Main base: Lands End
IATA: -- ICAO: ---
Callsign: -
Westward Airways (Land's End) Ltd. was established by Mr. Vivian Bellamy in August 1971 at Land’s End (St. Just) Aerodrome. The company had leased an Islander in October 1971 with the intention to run a scheduled service between Land’s End and the Scilly Isles. Following objections from BEA, the aircraft was returned to Brymon Aviation three month's later having not flown a single service. The company also ran the airport and the Land's End Aero Club, and in January 1972 acquired a Dragon Rapide that would be used for Charters, parachute dropping for the local skydiving club, and pleasure flying throughout the summer months until 1978. Another bid to run a service to the Scilly Isles was proposed in 1981, but was thwarted by objections from British Airways Helicopters.
The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group (ISSG) owned and operated Land's End Airport from 1984, after which Westward Airways (Land's End) Ltd activities were absorbed into the Group. In 1987 scheduled passenger flights to Scilly commenced using Isles of Scilly Skybus, a subsidiary airline that had been established by ISSG also back in 1984. The Lands End Flying School was closed 31 January 2009 with Westward Airways (Land's End) Ltd also ceasing the operation of sightseeing flights. Some aircraft were transferred to the Isles of Scilly Skybus, their now sister company, who resumed sightseeing flights under their own AOC.
v Tap for Fleet details v
v Tap for Fleet details v
Fleet List
Britten-Norman BN-2A IslanderG-AXXJ Leased from Brymon Airways Oct 1971 > Jan 1972
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AIYR 22/07/1971 > 08/11/1978
also
Piper PA-28-140 CherokeeG-ASPK 23/03/1987 > 23/05/2006
Reims Cessna F150FG-SCAT 23/08/2002 > 21/10/2005
Reims Cessna F152G-BFHT 28/09/1993 > 08/05/2007
Cessna FR172F Reims RocketG-AWWU 13/03/1986 > 31/01/2009 > IoS Skybus
Cessna 172AG-BAAL 31/07/1972 > 23/07/1984
Cessna 172N SkyhawkG-EOLX 12/04/2006 > 31/01/2009 > IoS Skybus
Britten-Norman BN-2A IslanderG-AXXJ Leased from Brymon Airways Oct 1971 > Jan 1972
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AIYR 22/07/1971 > 08/11/1978
also
Piper PA-28-140 CherokeeG-ASPK 23/03/1987 > 23/05/2006
Reims Cessna F150FG-SCAT 23/08/2002 > 21/10/2005
Reims Cessna F152G-BFHT 28/09/1993 > 08/05/2007
Cessna FR172F Reims RocketG-AWWU 13/03/1986 > 31/01/2009 > IoS Skybus
Cessna 172AG-BAAL 31/07/1972 > 23/07/1984
Cessna 172N SkyhawkG-EOLX 12/04/2006 > 31/01/2009 > IoS Skybus
Westway Air Taxis
Westway Air Taxis
1963 - 1964
Main base: Luton
IATA: -- ICAO: ---
Callsign: -
Westway Air Taxis Ltd was an executive charter and air taxi company founded at Luton Airport towards the end of 1963. The company initially operated with one Cessna 175A, flying domestic charter flights from Luton. A Piper Apache was subsequently added, increasing the number air taxi flights flown during the early months of 1964. Tragically the Apache was destroyed on 21 March 1964 while attempting to land at Aintree racecourse in poor weather conditions. The pilot and four passengers were killed and the accident ultimately led to the company ceasing all operations immediatly afterwards.
Fleet details
Cessna 175A SkylarkG-APZS 16/01/1964 > 03/04/1964
Piper PA-23 Apache 160G-ASHC 09/01/1964 > 21/03/1964
Cessna 175A SkylarkG-APZS 16/01/1964 > 03/04/1964
Piper PA-23 Apache 160G-ASHC 09/01/1964 > 21/03/1964
Main base: Elmdon Airport, BirminghamAirline designators: n/a
Wheels and Wings Ltd was a private charter company established at Elmdon Airport, Birmingham by E.H.Ludlow and L.Hargreaves. Commercial operations had began in November 1946 with two Auster Autocrats, but the company was only registered on 4 February 1947. A couple more Austers were added to the fleet and mainly operated pleasure flight and flying training at Elmdon. Although occasional passenger and freight ad-hoc charter flights had also been carried out, the addition of a newly converted Dragon Rapide enabled the company to significantly increase the number of passenger charter flights being undertaken, including to race meetings and holiday resorts. From the outset, the Rapide was registered under the name Hargreaves Airways. Wheels and Wings legally changed to that name on 12 September 1947.
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
Auster J/1 AutocratG-AIFZ 27/11/1946 > 05/06/1947G-AIGU 12/11/1946 > 28/08/1947
Auster J/2 ArrowG-AJAM 15/04/1947 > 12/09/1947 > Hargreaves Airways
Auster J/4G-AIJK 07/02/1947 > 27/08/1947
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AIUI 26/06/1947 > 12/09/1947 > Hargreaves Airways
Auster J/1 AutocratG-AIFZ 27/11/1946 > 05/06/1947G-AIGU 12/11/1946 > 28/08/1947
Auster J/2 ArrowG-AJAM 15/04/1947 > 12/09/1947 > Hargreaves Airways
Auster J/4G-AIJK 07/02/1947 > 27/08/1947
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AIUI 26/06/1947 > 12/09/1947 > Hargreaves Airways
Whoosh
Whoosh
2007
Main base: Birmingham International (BHX / EGBB)
IATA: W2 ICAO: WEA
Callsign: ?
Flywhoosh, the trading name of BluArrow Aviation Ltd., was established at Birmingham Airport utilising the services and licences of White Eagle Aviation, a Polish charter airline based at Warsaw-Okecie Airport.
29/05/2007: Scheduled services commenced to Dundee, Birmingham and Belfast City Airport.
07/12/2007: Flights suspended
v Tap for Fleet History v
29/05/2007: Scheduled services commenced to Dundee, Birmingham and Belfast City Airport.
07/12/2007: Flights suspended
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
ATR 42-320[ Registered to White Eagle Aviation, Warsaw ]SP-KCN
ATR 42-320[ Registered to White Eagle Aviation, Warsaw ]SP-KCN
Wight Airlines
Wight Airlines
2006 - 2011
Main base: Sandown Airport, IOW
IATA: -- ICAO: ---
Callsign: -
Wight Airlines was a regional carrier established at Sandown Airport, Isle of Wight, incorporated 19 July 2006. The airline planned to operate a three-times-weekly service between Sandown and London City Airport, together with a twice-weekly service to and from Guernsey. Operations commenced on 2 August 2006 using a Piper PA-31 Navajo Chieftain, with flights being conducted under the Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) of British North West Airlines. It soon became apparent that runway restrictions at Sandown would prohibit public transport certification and ability for the company to obtain its own AOC. Combined with the limited commercially viable flight slots available at London City, the company had decided to suspend the service by the end of August.
The Navajo Chieftain was seen operating in 'Wight Airlines' livery thoughout 2007 and was still in the livery at the end of 2011. The company legally changed its name to Wight Cabs Ltd on 4 July 2011, after plans to continue services did not materialise.
v Tap for Fleet History v
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet historyPiper PA-23 AztecG-ESKY 03/11/2004 > 26/05/2007 Registered to company owner.Piper PA-31-350 Navajo ChieftainG-BBNT Leasedn.b. The aircraft was seen operating in 'Wight Airlines' livery thoughout 2007. It was still in the livery at the start of 2012, but was presumably being prepared for its new owner at Lydd airport who had taken delivery in October 2011.
Wight Aviation
Wight Aviation
1930 - 1932
> Portsmouth, Southsea & Isle of Wight Aviation
Main base: Apse Manor Farm, IOW
Airline designators: n/a
Wight Aviation was originally established in 1928 as Inland Flying Services by Captain R.M.B. Ward and A.B. Forsyth based at Maylands Aerodrome, Essex. The joy-riding and aircraft maintenance company had relocated to Apse Manor Farm on the outskirts of Shanklin, Isle of Wight by August 1929 and changed its name to Wight Aviation Ltd on 16 April 1930 to reflect their location. Their original Avro 504Ks were replaced by a DH.60 Moth, and a Klemm L.27 and Spartan Three-seater subsequently followed. The popular joyriding flights continued as well as flying tuition and occasional charter work. The Isle of Wight Flying Club was also established to work along side these operations.
On 11 May 1932, the company changed its name to Portsmouth, Southsea & Isle of Wight Aviation (PSIOWA) following company recapitalisation and take over by L.M.J. Balfour and Francis Luxmoore.
v Tap for Fleet History v
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet historyAvro 504KG-AAFE 16/04/1930 > 11/12/1930G-AAFT 16/04/1930 > 00/03/1931de Havilland DH.60G MothG-AAAG 16/04/1930 > 11/05/1932 > PSIOWAKlemm L.27 IIIG-ABJX Registered to A.S. Murray (Secretary) > PSIOWASpartan Three-seaterG-ABLJ Registered to A.S. Murray (Secretary) > PSIOWA
William Dempster
William Dempster
1948 - 1954
Main base: Blackbushe > StanstedAirline designators: n/a
William Dempster Ltd was an independent airline established in the immediate post-war period when surplus military aircraft were being converted for civil use. The company commenced operations late in 1948 with a Dragon Rapide flying ad-hoc passenger and freight charters from Blackbushe. Having acquired two Avro Tudor V, the company operated its first long-range commercial service in April 1950 offering inexpensive flights to South Africa. The company concentrated on long-distance charter flying adding North Africa and the Middle East. A Dakota was subsequently added to enable additional passenger and freight charter work in Europe. All operations were suspended at the end of 1953 following a couple of incidents including the total loss of one of it's Tudors.
v Tap for Fleet details and historical timeline v
v Tap for Fleet details and historical timeline v
Fleet historyAvro 689 Tudor 5G-AKCC 05/04/1950 > 26/10/1951G-AKCD 09/09/1950 > 01/03/1954de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AFMA 24/01/1949 > 13/04/1950G-AKGV 11/11/1948 > 19/07/1950Douglas C-47B DakotaG-AMSS 05/05/1952 > 31/12/1953
Historical timeline
Late 1948
Late 1948
Operations begin from Blackbushe, using a de Havilland Dragon Rapide G-AKGV.
*Some sources show the airline being established in May 1947 which may have been its legal incorporation date.
1949
1949
A second de Havilland Dragon Rapide G-AFMA joins the fleet. Both Rapides operate several ad-hoc passenger and freight charters throughout the year.
1950
South African charter connection
Two former British South American Airways Corporation Avro Tudors are acquired. The company operates its first long-range commercial service on 6 April 1950 to Johannesburg.
The airline worked closely with South African charter operator Pan African Air Charter, which operated a weekly Dakota service between Johannesburg and the UK. William Dempster continues to operate many flights to South Africa offering very low-fare charters in comparison to others.
1951
1951
Operations shift to Stansted
Flights had operated from both Blackbushe and Bovingdon. By summer 1951, the operation had transferred to Stansted.
Early in October 1951 both Tudors were involved in the evacuation of British personnel from the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company plant at Abadan, following their expulsion by Iranian Government.
26 Oct 1951
26 Oct 1951
Loss of Avro Tudor G-AKCC
The aircraft crashed during a landing attempt at Bovingdon after a flight from Castel Benito, Libya. It was destroyed by fire, but all seven occupants escaped without fatalities.
1952
1952
Expansion into wider charter markets
The remaining Tudor continues on the Johannesburg route plus adhoc charters to Europe, North Africa and the Middle-East. A Douglas C-47B Dakota, registration G-AMSS, entered service in August enabling additional charters to Europe and the Isle of Man.
June 1953
June 1953
Suspension of routes.
Flights to South Africa had continue, but the remaining Tudor suffers a tail-wheel collapse in June 1953 and was taken out of service.
By the end of the year William Dempster had elected to stop all flying, and the Dakota was sold on.
Jan 1954
Jan 1954
Dissolution
The remaining Tudor was grounded at Stansted and used as a source of spares for Aviation Traders' Tudor rebuilding programme. This marked the end of the airline's operations, although it does not by itself establish the legal dissolution date of the company.
Williams Air Charter
Williams Air Charter
1964 - 1966 > Slingsby Air Charter > 1969
Main base: Yeadon AirportIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
Williams Air Charter Ltd. was established as Yorkshire's first commercial air taxi firm by Squadron Leader Harold Paston-Williams and Captain A.G.Morris in April 1964. Operations began from Yeadon Airport, Leeds, during April with a Riley 65 (G-ASNS), but this was susequently destroyed in a landing incident in Bombay having been leased to an Indian operator. The company was registered as an air charter company on May 14 1964. Another Riley 65 was acquired in Mid-1964, and carried out numerous UK and Continental charters throughout the year. A Cessna 310 was acquired in November to bolster the fleet. The Riley was out of action from 22 March 1965 following a collapsed undercarriage incident on landing.
Following the departure of Squadron Leader Paston, the company changed its name to Slingsby Air Charter, reportedly at the end of 1966 although the aircraft's change of record wasn't date stamped until 4 April 1967. Slingsby Air Charter continued passenger and freight charter flights from Leeds, in addition to a limited amount of aerial photography and pilot training. Air taxi operations continued throughout 1967, although the Riley 65 was sold at the end of the year. The Cessna continued flying until the company ceased all operations towards the end of 1969.
v Tap for Fleet History v
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
Riley 65G-ASNS Leased from Keegan AviationG-ASSZ 03/07/1964 > 04/04/1967* > 22/11/1967
Cessna 310GG-ASYV 24/11/1964 > 09/04/1967* > 01/11/1969
*date stamp on G-INFO record confirming name change from Williams Air Charter to Slingsby Air Charter, although this was most likely carried out earlier, possibly at the end of 1966.
Riley 65G-ASNS Leased from Keegan AviationG-ASSZ 03/07/1964 > 04/04/1967* > 22/11/1967
Cessna 310GG-ASYV 24/11/1964 > 09/04/1967* > 01/11/1969
*date stamp on G-INFO record confirming name change from Williams Air Charter to Slingsby Air Charter, although this was most likely carried out earlier, possibly at the end of 1966.
WillowAir
WillowAir
1991 - 1996
> Streamline Aviation
Main base: Southend (SEN / EGMC)
IATA: -- ICAO: WLO
Callsign: WILLOWAIR
Formed in 1991, Southend-based WillowAir operated ad-hoc passenger and regular scheduled cargo charters. Operating a mixed fleet of leased and third-party-owned aircraft, cargo routes were flown between Southend and Luton to Dublin, Amsterdam and Brussels. The company had a close association with Streamline Aviation and WillowAir aircraft were progressively transferred to Air Tabernacle Ltd, an offshoot created by Streamline to principally cover their contract with Overseas Courier Service (OCS). WillowAir merged into Streamline on 1 Nov 1996.
v Tap for Fleet History v
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
Britten-Norman BN-2A-III TrislanderG-OJAV 12/05/1992 > 06/09/1994 Willow Warm Ltd 06/09/1994 > 07/02/1997 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-OREG 07/06/1991 > 25/02/1994 owned by Industrial Marketing de Havilland Canada DHC-6-200 Twin Otter G-BUOM Leased from BAC Charter
Embraer EMB-110PG-BHJZ 22/08/1994 > 29/12/1994 Willowjet >>>> G-OCSI 29/12/1994 > 18/01/1996 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-BNIX 21/02/1994 > 07/02/1995 Streamline 07/02/1995 > 28/12/1995 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-DORK 21/02/1994 > 07/02/1995 Streamline 07/02/1995 > 18/04/1995 Willowjet >>>> G-OCSZ 18/04/1995 > 28/12/1995 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-OPPP 16/09/1994 > 29/03/1995 Willowjet >>>> G-OHIG 29/03/1995 > 03/06/1996 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-ZUSS Leased from BAC Charter
Short 330-100G-SLUG Leased from BAC Charter
Britten-Norman BN-2A-III TrislanderG-OJAV 12/05/1992 > 06/09/1994 Willow Warm Ltd 06/09/1994 > 07/02/1997 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-OREG 07/06/1991 > 25/02/1994 owned by Industrial Marketing de Havilland Canada DHC-6-200 Twin Otter G-BUOM Leased from BAC Charter
Embraer EMB-110PG-BHJZ 22/08/1994 > 29/12/1994 Willowjet >>>> G-OCSI 29/12/1994 > 18/01/1996 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-BNIX 21/02/1994 > 07/02/1995 Streamline 07/02/1995 > 28/12/1995 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-DORK 21/02/1994 > 07/02/1995 Streamline 07/02/1995 > 18/04/1995 Willowjet >>>> G-OCSZ 18/04/1995 > 28/12/1995 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-OPPP 16/09/1994 > 29/03/1995 Willowjet >>>> G-OHIG 29/03/1995 > 03/06/1996 Willowjet > Air Tabernacle
G-ZUSS Leased from BAC Charter
Short 330-100G-SLUG Leased from BAC Charter
Windmill Theatre Transport
Windmill Theatre Transport
1946 - 1960
Main base: Croydon / GatwickAirline designators: n/a
Windmill Theatre Transport Company Ltd. was established asa private airline company on 4 November 1946 to operate lines of aerial conveyances between London and Europe. Commercial charter operations began in November using a Percival Proctor flying several domestic and international air taxi flights from both Croydon and Gatwick Airports. The Windmill Theatre Flying Club was also formed utilising aircraft from the West London Aero Club at White Waltham. The airline subsequently acquired a Dragon Rapide to operate commercial charter flights from Gatwick, plus trips connected with the theatre's business. The Proctor was sold in 1955, but the Rapide continued to operate the European charter flights.The company ceased operations in early 1960.
Fleet history
Percival P.44 Proctor VG-AIET 14/10/1946 > 27/01/1955
DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AKSD 24/11/1948 > 15/02/1960
Percival P.44 Proctor VG-AIET 14/10/1946 > 27/01/1955
DH.89A Dragon RapideG-AKSD 24/11/1948 > 15/02/1960
Wirral Airways
Wirral Airways
1949 - 1950
Main base: Liverpool (Speke) AirportAirline designators: n/a
Wirral Airways Ltd. was registered as a private airline company on 19 May 1949 by Lieutenant Commander R. Edgar Bibby and John G.Costain, a local farmer. Bibby had already purchased a Percival Q.6 back in January 1946 for his own personal use and by 1948 Bibby had started commercially chartering the aircraft out, hence the decision to form Wirral Airways. In May 1949 a Miles Gemini joined Wirral's fleet but the Q.6 was damaged beyond repair in a landing accident on 18 June. A replacement aircraft, an Airspeed Consul, was found in July and operated passenger and freight charter flights from Liverpool throughout the UK and Europe. The Gemini operated pleasure flying at Broomhall Aerodrome.
The Consul and Gemini remained in service with Wirral throughout 1950, with some sources reporting the company ceased flying by the end of that year. The Consul remained registered to Wirral until June 1951, and the Gemini remained in Bibby's name until May 1952, suggesting it could have been retained for his own personal use.
v Tap for Fleet History v
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
Percival P.16 Q.6G-AFIW 02/01/1946 > 18/06/1949
Miles M.65 Gemini 1AG-AKHB 25/03/1949 > 12/05/1952
Airspeed AS.65 ConsulG-AIKT 22/07/1949 > 01/06/1951
Percival P.16 Q.6G-AFIW 02/01/1946 > 18/06/1949
Miles M.65 Gemini 1AG-AKHB 25/03/1949 > 12/05/1952
Airspeed AS.65 ConsulG-AIKT 22/07/1949 > 01/06/1951
Main base: Pendeford AirfieldIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
Wolverhampton Aviation Ltd was established in 1950 as a post-war subsidiary of Air Schools Ltd, alongside Derby Aviation, and took over operations and maintenance at Pendeford Airfield. Whilst they did not begin operating their licensed scheduled holiday routes to Jersey and the Isle of Man until 18 July 1953, Wolverhampton Aviation had been heavily active in charter taxi work, flight training and aircraft brokerage that included assembling leftover frames after the bankruptcy of Miles Aircraft. To consolidate resources, the assets of Wolverhampton Aviation were fully merged into Derby Aviation in 1954. The unified company would gradually expand and rename itself Derby Airways in 1959 before becoming British Midland Airways (BMA / BMI) in 1964.
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideThe Rapide was the backbone of their initial scheduled passenger services and ad hoc charters.G-AIUK Air Schools > Wolverhampton Aviation > Derby AviationG-AIUL 09/06/1954 > Derby AviationG-AJMY 17/07/1951 > 21/08/1952G-AKME 21/02/1950 > 30/06/1950G-AKOV 09/08/1950 > Derby AviationG-ALGC 17/07/1952 > 03/02/1953G-ALGE 06/05/1952 > 29/05/1954
Miles M.14A Hawk Trainer III / MagisterMainly utilised for the company’s associated flying school and local pilot training contractsG-AKKR 10/06/1953 > 01/11/1957G-AKKV 10/06/1953 > 26/06/1956G-AKMN 12/12/1950 > 12/10/1953G-AKPF Air Schools > Wolverhampton Aviation > Derby Aviation
Miles M.38 MessengerUsed for light passenger transport, taxi services, and civilian conversions from ex-military stockG-AJFF 17/04/1952 > 06/06/1952G-AKDF 09/11/1950 > 14/05/1954
Miles M.65 GeminiWhen Miles Aircraft went bankrupt in 1947, Wolverhampton Aviation bought several uncompleted components and finished assembling five Gemini Mk. 3A airframes at Pendeford. They flew these for charter, taxi work, and *aircraft brokerageG-AJTL 15/02/1952 > 31/10/1960G-ALCS*G-ALMU*G-AMDE*G-AMGF*G-AMKZ 02/08/1951 > 06/06/1952G-AMME*
Percival ProctorG-AHUX 12/05/1954 > 29/09/1954
Also
Auster 5J1 AutocratG-AGVN 17/04/1952 > 10/03/1958
de Havilland DH.82A Tiger MothG-AHRR 25/08/1951 > 09/05/1952
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideThe Rapide was the backbone of their initial scheduled passenger services and ad hoc charters.G-AIUK Air Schools > Wolverhampton Aviation > Derby AviationG-AIUL 09/06/1954 > Derby AviationG-AJMY 17/07/1951 > 21/08/1952G-AKME 21/02/1950 > 30/06/1950G-AKOV 09/08/1950 > Derby AviationG-ALGC 17/07/1952 > 03/02/1953G-ALGE 06/05/1952 > 29/05/1954
Miles M.14A Hawk Trainer III / MagisterMainly utilised for the company’s associated flying school and local pilot training contractsG-AKKR 10/06/1953 > 01/11/1957G-AKKV 10/06/1953 > 26/06/1956G-AKMN 12/12/1950 > 12/10/1953G-AKPF Air Schools > Wolverhampton Aviation > Derby Aviation
Miles M.38 MessengerUsed for light passenger transport, taxi services, and civilian conversions from ex-military stockG-AJFF 17/04/1952 > 06/06/1952G-AKDF 09/11/1950 > 14/05/1954
Miles M.65 GeminiWhen Miles Aircraft went bankrupt in 1947, Wolverhampton Aviation bought several uncompleted components and finished assembling five Gemini Mk. 3A airframes at Pendeford. They flew these for charter, taxi work, and *aircraft brokerageG-AJTL 15/02/1952 > 31/10/1960G-ALCS*G-ALMU*G-AMDE*G-AMGF*G-AMKZ 02/08/1951 > 06/06/1952G-AMME*
Percival ProctorG-AHUX 12/05/1954 > 29/09/1954
Also
Auster 5J1 AutocratG-AGVN 17/04/1952 > 10/03/1958
de Havilland DH.82A Tiger MothG-AHRR 25/08/1951 > 09/05/1952
Woodgate Air Services
Woodgate Air Services
Woodgate Aviation (I.O.M.) Ltd
Woodgate Aviation (I.O.M.) Ltd
Woodgate Executive Air Charter (UK) Limited
Woodgate Executive Air Charter (UK) Limited
(operational)
Woodward Air Services
Woodward Air Services
1974 - 1978
Main base: BournemouthIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
Woodward Air Services Ltd, the trading name of Euromount Ltd, was established in October 1974 by Captain J.M.Woodward. Commercial air taxi and executive charter operations commenced from Hurn Airport, Bournemouth on 18 October 1974 using a Cessna 310. The company undertook a variety of specialist work including air ambulance flights, radar calibration duties and oil-slick surveillance patrols. A Piper Aztec was added in June 1975 and was employed on executive and Continental charter services from Bournemouth. The company's final known aircraft, Cessna 310K G-ATLD, left Euromount ownership in January 1978, suggesting that operations may have ceased around that time, although no definitive closure date has yet been established.
Fleet history
Both aircraft registered to Euromount Ltd
Cessna 310KG-ATLD 03/12/1975 > 12/01/1978
Piper PA-23 Aztec 250CG-BDAV 24/06/1975 > 27/02/1976
Both aircraft registered to Euromount Ltd
Cessna 310KG-ATLD 03/12/1975 > 12/01/1978
Piper PA-23 Aztec 250CG-BDAV 24/06/1975 > 27/02/1976
World Air Freight
World Air Freight
1947 - 1950
Main base: Stansted > BovingdonAirline designators: n/a
World Air Freight Ltd was an independent air freight and charter airline operating in the immediate post-Second World War period. It belonged to the generation of private British aviation companies that repurposed surplus wartime aircraft for commercial cargo operations. Established 24 June 1947, World Air Freight began charter operations utilising a Handley Page Halifax heavy bomber converted to carry cargo on domestic and international routes. Operations also included the transportation of essential supplies during the Berlin Airlift and the British milk airlift. Aircraft losses and a final serious landing accident contributed to the end of its flying operations in early 1950.
Fleet history
HP.70 Halifax 8G-AITC 09/04/1949 > 20/01/1950G-AJNZ 29/10/1947 > 21/10/1948G-AKAC 14/11/1948 > 30/04/1949G-AKGZ 17/09/1947 > 21/10/1948
v Tap for Historical Timeline v
HP.70 Halifax 8G-AITC 09/04/1949 > 20/01/1950G-AJNZ 29/10/1947 > 21/10/1948G-AKAC 14/11/1948 > 30/04/1949G-AKGZ 17/09/1947 > 21/10/1948
v Tap for Historical Timeline v
Historical Timeline
1947 - Formation and early development
24 June: World Air Freight Ltd established at Stansted.
17 September: First converted HP Halifax registered to company
26 November: Aircraft delivered
29 November: Charter operations commence
1948 - Expansion, relocation and airlift operations
28 January: Second converted Halifax delivered
End February: The company moved from Stansted to former RAF aerodrome at Bovingdon.
March: Operations commence from Bovingdon on 4th undertaking charter work involving the transport of heavy machinery to Damascus for the Middle East Oil Company.
April: A six-ton tail-shaft was flown to Rangoon for the repair of a stranded merchant steamship the 'Finnamore Hill'. Under contract to BOAC, G-AKGZ completed the 6800 mile flight in three days with numerous refueling stops enroute.
May: Two halifaxes operated flights carrying fruit from Italy and Spain to the UK.
Summer–autumn:
At the end of the summer G-AJNZ was assigned to the Northern Ireland emergency milk run that involved transporting over one hundred ten-gallon milk churns per trip.
28 September: G-AJNZ crashed into high ground on the Isle of Man killing all crew members.
6 October: The airline commences participation in the Berlin Airlift, which supplied West Berlin after the Soviet blockade began in June.
8 October: Halifax G-AKGZ crashed on take-off at Berlin-Gatow and although written off, all five crew members survived.
World Air Freight was left without any aircraft until Christmas Eve 1948, when a replacement converted Halifax G-AKAC entered service to operate the run between Hamburg and Berlin. 1949 - Continued freight work and Berlin Airlift service
March: A second converted Halifax G-AITC arrived
April: G-AKAC was lost in a fatal crash in the Russian Zone some 30 miles north of Berlin. G-AKAC, having reportedly already completed 255 airlifts
The airlift remained active after the Soviet blockade was lifted on 12 May 1949, and by the end World Air Freight had completed a total of 526 sorties carrying approximately 3,800 tonnes with 1,212 flying hours.
1950 - End of operations and successor company
The sole surviving Halifax G-AITC returned home to resume its regular charter work, largely involving the movement of cloth and textiles from Lille and Milan.
20 January: G-AITC was written off in a landing accident at Brindisi, Italy.
Late January: World Air Freight ceased flying, although one of their directors would subsequently establish a short-lived sucessor, Worldair Carriers.
1947 - Formation and early development
24 June: World Air Freight Ltd established at Stansted.
17 September: First converted HP Halifax registered to company
26 November: Aircraft delivered
29 November: Charter operations commence
1948 - Expansion, relocation and airlift operations
28 January: Second converted Halifax delivered
End February: The company moved from Stansted to former RAF aerodrome at Bovingdon.
March: Operations commence from Bovingdon on 4th undertaking charter work involving the transport of heavy machinery to Damascus for the Middle East Oil Company.
April: A six-ton tail-shaft was flown to Rangoon for the repair of a stranded merchant steamship the 'Finnamore Hill'. Under contract to BOAC, G-AKGZ completed the 6800 mile flight in three days with numerous refueling stops enroute.
May: Two halifaxes operated flights carrying fruit from Italy and Spain to the UK.
Summer–autumn:
At the end of the summer G-AJNZ was assigned to the Northern Ireland emergency milk run that involved transporting over one hundred ten-gallon milk churns per trip.
28 September: G-AJNZ crashed into high ground on the Isle of Man killing all crew members.
6 October: The airline commences participation in the Berlin Airlift, which supplied West Berlin after the Soviet blockade began in June.
8 October: Halifax G-AKGZ crashed on take-off at Berlin-Gatow and although written off, all five crew members survived.
World Air Freight was left without any aircraft until Christmas Eve 1948, when a replacement converted Halifax G-AKAC entered service to operate the run between Hamburg and Berlin. 1949 - Continued freight work and Berlin Airlift service
March: A second converted Halifax G-AITC arrived
April: G-AKAC was lost in a fatal crash in the Russian Zone some 30 miles north of Berlin. G-AKAC, having reportedly already completed 255 airlifts
The airlift remained active after the Soviet blockade was lifted on 12 May 1949, and by the end World Air Freight had completed a total of 526 sorties carrying approximately 3,800 tonnes with 1,212 flying hours.
1950 - End of operations and successor company
The sole surviving Halifax G-AITC returned home to resume its regular charter work, largely involving the movement of cloth and textiles from Lille and Milan.
20 January: G-AITC was written off in a landing accident at Brindisi, Italy.
Late January: World Air Freight ceased flying, although one of their directors would subsequently establish a short-lived sucessor, Worldair Carriers.
World Airlines
World Airlines
1995 - 1996
HQ: London City Airport
IATA: W2 ICAO: WRD
Callsign: ECLIPSE
World Airlines was incorporated for scheduled air transport on 25 August 1995 with operations commencing with a 4 times a day service out of London City Airport to and from Amsterdam on 13 May 1996. Additional flights to Munich were subsequently introduced. The airline had ceased operations by the end of 1996, but it wasn't until 24 March 2020 the company was officially dissolved.
Fleet history
BAE.146-200G-OWLD 16/07/1996 > 08/11/1996G-WLCY 26/03/1996 > 09/05/1997
Fleet history
BAE.146-200G-OWLD 16/07/1996 > 08/11/1996G-WLCY 26/03/1996 > 09/05/1997
World Wide Aviation
World Wide Aviation
1960 - 1962
Main base: GatwickIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
World Wide Aviation Ltd was established by former Blue-Air pilot, Captain W.J.Bright in July 1960. Up to three Douglas Skymasters were leased to carry out charter flights and Inclusive Tour contracts, boosted in August 1961 by the gain of several contracts from the recently failed Overseas Aviation. Come the winter of 1961 very little charter flying was being undertaken and was particularly bad period for all. The company was unable to raise sufficient capital to continue operations, not helped by delays in payment for some IT flights completed in 1961. After struggling through spring of 1962, the company returned their Air Operators Certificate to the Ministry of Aviation in July.
v Tap for Fleet details and Historical Timeline v
Fleet history
Douglas C-54A Skymaster(Leased from Trans World Leasing)
G-APCW 17/12/1960 > 17/01/1962(Wet leased to Sabena Airways 07/1961 > 10/1961)
G-APID 00/12/1960 > 00/01/1961(Utilised during maintenance periods / peak schedules)
G-ARIC 22/07/1961 > 01/11/1961
Dates sourced from Planelogger.com
Douglas C-54A Skymaster(Leased from Trans World Leasing)
G-APCW 17/12/1960 > 17/01/1962(Wet leased to Sabena Airways 07/1961 > 10/1961)
G-APID 00/12/1960 > 00/01/1961(Utilised during maintenance periods / peak schedules)
G-ARIC 22/07/1961 > 01/11/1961
Dates sourced from Planelogger.com
Historical timeline
July 1960World Wide Aviation Ltd was established by former Blue-Air captain and ferry pilot, Captain W.J.Bright to undertake world wide ad-hoc charter fights from the UK.
December 1960Douglas Skymaster G-APCW was obtained on lease from Trans World Leasing. World Wide Aviation collected the aircraft from Manchester on 17 December 1960 and flew it to Frankfurt to operate a series of holiday flights from West Germany over the Christmas period.
World Wide Aviation also operated a three week holiday flight to the Holy Land during December, most likely using another Skymaster G-APID also leased from Trans World Leasing.
30 December 1960Skymaster G-APCW returned to Southend for routine maintenance.
World Wide Aviation also operated a number of schedules -from Heathrow to Reykjavik on behalf of Loftleidir, an Icelandic airline running reduced fare services to North America using Douglas DC-6B aircraft.
January 1961Skymaster G-APCW was wet leased to Sabena, which was inturn despatched to the Belgian Congo to fly relief services on behalf of the United Nations Organisation. Operating from Leopoldville, work included the carriage of United Nations troops, and the transport of a varied cargo.
Charter operations had all but ceased in the UK with the aircraft being abroad.
July 1961To allow World Wide Aviation to operate services from its Gatwick base, the company took delivery of another Skymaster G-ARIC again leased from Trans World Leasing. After a major overhaul, the aircraft flew its first commercial service on 22 July from Gatwick to Palma. A further inclusive tour charter flight was flown to Palma a week later after a short maintenance visit.
Further trips were operated in the following weeks from Gatwick, Exeter, Bournemouth and Manchester.
13 AugustG-ARIC operated an Air Safaris scheduled service from Bournemouth to Belfast and Dublin.
A few days later World Wide Aviation were involved in repatriating stranded tourists following the collapse of Overseas Aviation.
20 AugustA Barcelona - Gatwick - Prestwick - Belfast inclusive tour charter service was flown, and subsequently a Belfast and Prestwick to Valencia service, both previously operated by Overseas Aviation.
SeptemberG-ARIC operated flights from Berlin transporting holidaymakers to Mediterranean resorts.
6 OctoberG-ARIC resumed inclusive tour charter flying from Gatwick to Palma, followed by a Palma to Manchester.
11 OctoberG-APCW arrived back at Gatwick following the end of its charter to Sabena, and went into mainenance at Biggin Hill.
1 NovemberWith very little charter flying being undertaken G-ARIC was returned to Trans World Leasing
17 January 1962G-APCW was put in to storage at Liverpool airport.
July 1962World Wide Aviation elected to return their Air Operators Certificate to the Ministry of Aviation.
Although no further flying was undertaken by the company, the World Wide Aviation name remained for a while in the hope that the airline could be reincarnated, but it was not to be.
Timeline extracted fromMerton Jones, Tony, British Independent Airlines1946-1976 (The Aviation Hobby Shop, 2000)
July 1960World Wide Aviation Ltd was established by former Blue-Air captain and ferry pilot, Captain W.J.Bright to undertake world wide ad-hoc charter fights from the UK.
December 1960Douglas Skymaster G-APCW was obtained on lease from Trans World Leasing. World Wide Aviation collected the aircraft from Manchester on 17 December 1960 and flew it to Frankfurt to operate a series of holiday flights from West Germany over the Christmas period.
World Wide Aviation also operated a three week holiday flight to the Holy Land during December, most likely using another Skymaster G-APID also leased from Trans World Leasing.
30 December 1960Skymaster G-APCW returned to Southend for routine maintenance.
World Wide Aviation also operated a number of schedules -from Heathrow to Reykjavik on behalf of Loftleidir, an Icelandic airline running reduced fare services to North America using Douglas DC-6B aircraft.
January 1961Skymaster G-APCW was wet leased to Sabena, which was inturn despatched to the Belgian Congo to fly relief services on behalf of the United Nations Organisation. Operating from Leopoldville, work included the carriage of United Nations troops, and the transport of a varied cargo.
Charter operations had all but ceased in the UK with the aircraft being abroad.
July 1961To allow World Wide Aviation to operate services from its Gatwick base, the company took delivery of another Skymaster G-ARIC again leased from Trans World Leasing. After a major overhaul, the aircraft flew its first commercial service on 22 July from Gatwick to Palma. A further inclusive tour charter flight was flown to Palma a week later after a short maintenance visit.
Further trips were operated in the following weeks from Gatwick, Exeter, Bournemouth and Manchester.
13 AugustG-ARIC operated an Air Safaris scheduled service from Bournemouth to Belfast and Dublin.
A few days later World Wide Aviation were involved in repatriating stranded tourists following the collapse of Overseas Aviation.
20 AugustA Barcelona - Gatwick - Prestwick - Belfast inclusive tour charter service was flown, and subsequently a Belfast and Prestwick to Valencia service, both previously operated by Overseas Aviation.
SeptemberG-ARIC operated flights from Berlin transporting holidaymakers to Mediterranean resorts.
6 OctoberG-ARIC resumed inclusive tour charter flying from Gatwick to Palma, followed by a Palma to Manchester.
11 OctoberG-APCW arrived back at Gatwick following the end of its charter to Sabena, and went into mainenance at Biggin Hill.
1 NovemberWith very little charter flying being undertaken G-ARIC was returned to Trans World Leasing
17 January 1962G-APCW was put in to storage at Liverpool airport.
July 1962World Wide Aviation elected to return their Air Operators Certificate to the Ministry of Aviation.
Although no further flying was undertaken by the company, the World Wide Aviation name remained for a while in the hope that the airline could be reincarnated, but it was not to be.
Timeline extracted fromMerton Jones, Tony, British Independent Airlines1946-1976 (The Aviation Hobby Shop, 2000)
Worldair Carriers
Worldair Carriers
1950
Main base: BovingdonIATA: -- ICAO: ---Callsign: -
Worldair Carriers was registered as an airline company on 19 January 1950, and was established as a successor to World Air Freight, by one of their former directors. Based at Bovingdon, Worldair commenced commercial operations in February using a single Halton freighter and flew a number of charters to the Continent with several flights being operated from Heathrow. On 16 April the Halton crashed in the Swiss Alps killing its one passenger and five crew members, two of whom were directors of Worldair Carriers. No further operations were carried out as a consequence and the company ceased.
Fleet history
HP.70 HaltonG-AHDX 9/08/1950 > 16/04/1950
HP.70 HaltonG-AHDX 9/08/1950 > 16/04/1950
Wrightways
Wrightways
1933 - 1940
HQ: Heston
Airline designators: n/a
Wrightways was established in August 1933 by Richard Wrightson & Richard Pearse. A sole Dragon initially operated air-taxi and charter operations from its base at London's Heston Aerodrome but was involved in a serious accident a month later. A scheduled 3 times a week passenger service between Heston and Le Touquet started on 29 March 1934. Wrightson Air Hire and Wrightson Aircraft Sales were also started in April and May of 1934, to run the hire / charter and aircraft sales / brokerage sides of the company. A daily early morning freight and newspaper service to Paris (Le Bourget) started in April 1935. The route operated with a DH.86 from July 1936, which enabled a 3 times a day passenger service. The company also undertook sightseeing tours over London, air ambulance operations and aircraft engineering work.
Wrightways continued operations until April 1940, when the RAF took over all its Facilities and aircraft following the outbreak of the Second World War.
v Tap for Fleet History v
v Tap for Fleet History v
Fleet history
de Havilland DH.80A Puss MothG-ABMS 11/06/1936 > 25/01/1938
de Havilland DH.84 DragonG-ACHX 11/07/1933 > 15/09/1933 [ Wrightson & Pearse ] 03/07/1935 > 25/04/1938
G-ACKU 00/02/1934 > 01/07/1935 [ Wrightson & Pearse ] > > 01/07/1935 > 12/08/1936
de Havilland DH.85 Leopard MothG-ACKY 26/07/1935 > 00/12/1937 [ Private owner ]
de Havilland DH.86B ExpressG-ADYI 05/01/1938 > 14/04/1940 > RAFG-AEJM 06/07/1936 > 14/04/1940 > RAF
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-ADAL 04/06/1936 > 14/04/1940 > RAFG-AEML 01/09/1936 > 14/04/1940 > RAFG-AFEZ 31/05/1938 > 14/04/1940 > RAF
de Havilland DH.80A Puss MothG-ABMS 11/06/1936 > 25/01/1938
de Havilland DH.84 DragonG-ACHX 11/07/1933 > 15/09/1933 [ Wrightson & Pearse ] 03/07/1935 > 25/04/1938
G-ACKU 00/02/1934 > 01/07/1935 [ Wrightson & Pearse ] > > 01/07/1935 > 12/08/1936
de Havilland DH.85 Leopard MothG-ACKY 26/07/1935 > 00/12/1937 [ Private owner ]
de Havilland DH.86B ExpressG-ADYI 05/01/1938 > 14/04/1940 > RAFG-AEJM 06/07/1936 > 14/04/1940 > RAF
de Havilland DH.89A Dragon RapideG-ADAL 04/06/1936 > 14/04/1940 > RAFG-AEML 01/09/1936 > 14/04/1940 > RAFG-AFEZ 31/05/1938 > 14/04/1940 > RAF
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