On March 20, 1985, the de Havilland Aircraft Museum in Shenley, England, took delivery of its DH.106 Comet fuselage. The Comet was the world’s first commercial jet-powered airliner, featuring a sleek design with a long, narrow fuselage and distinctive inboard engine inlets nestled within the wing roots. When it first flew in 1949, the Comet was a groundbreaking achievement that remained in operation until 1997.
However, the Comet’s entry into the airline industry was not without challenges. The original Comet 1 suffered from a series of catastrophic accidents caused by structural fatigue and airframe stress. These failures led to the aircraft being temporarily withdrawn from service while extensive testing and redesign efforts were undertaken. The lessons learned from these setbacks significantly influenced the development of future jet airliners.
The de Havilland Comet 4, introduced in 1958, marked a significant improvement over its predecessor. This safer and more capable variant remained in service with commercial airlines and the Royal Air Force, where it continued flying as the Hawker Siddeley Nimrod for maritime patrol missions until 2011. The Comet 4 boasted increased range (2,802 nautical miles), faster speeds (450 knots), and a higher passenger capacity, solidifying its place in aviation history. In total, 114 Comets of various models were produced.
The de Havilland Aircraft Museum houses the fuselage of Comet 2, F-BGNX, the only surviving example with the original flawed square windows. Now fully restored and on display, it serves as a vital piece of aviation history. Despite the challenges faced by the original Comet, the innovations and safety advancements that stemmed from its development paved the way for the modern commercial jet industry, ensuring a safer and more reliable air travel experience for future generations.
