British Aircraft Corporation

BAC One-Eleven 200

The BAC One‑Eleven 200 was the first production variant of the British Aircraft Corporation’s short‑haul jet, introduced in 1965. Developed from the earlier One‑Eleven 100 prototype, the 200 incorporated a strengthened airframe, increased fuel capacity, and more powerful Rolls‑Royce Spey Mk.511 engines delivering 13,400 lbf thrust each. These upgrades allowed a maximum take‑off weight of 62,000 lb and a cruising speed of Mach 0.78, giving the aircraft a range of roughly 1,200 nautical miles with a typical eight‑passenger configuration. Its low‑wing, T‑tail layout and relatively small footprint made it ideal for operations from short, constrained runways, a requirement that attracted numerous regional airlines across Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. Over 200 units of the 200 series were built, establishing the One‑Eleven as one of the most popular narrow‑body jets of the 1960s and 1970s. The type’s reliability and economical operating costs helped democratise jet travel for secondary markets, paving the way for later regional jet concepts. Although production ceased in 1982, many One‑Eleven 200s logged tens of thousands of flight hours, leaving a lasting imprint on short‑haul commercial aviation. Today several preserved examples are displayed in museums, reminding enthusiasts of its pioneering role.

Classification

Production & History

Units Produced
56
First Flight
1963
Service Entry
1965

Design & Classification

Country of Origin
Manufacturer
British Aircraft Corporation
Engine
RB.163 Spey Mk 506
Operator
British Caledonian Aer Lingus
Wikidata ID
Q18199677