de Havilland Aircraft Company
DH.89 Dragon Rapide
The de Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide, first flown in 1934, was a twin‑engine biplane that quickly became a workhorse of short‑haul civil aviation. Designed by de Havilland Aircraft Company as a more economical successor to the larger Dragon, the Rapide featured a sleek, staggered biplane wing, a wooden frame covered with fabric, and a spacious cabin that could accommodate up to eight passengers. Powered by two 200‑hp de Havilland Gipsy Six engines, it offered reliable performance, a cruising speed of about 150 mph and a range of roughly 600 mi, making it ideal for regional routes, air mail, and charter services.
During the late 1930s the Rapide entered airline fleets across Britain, Europe, Africa and the Americas, serving companies such as British European Airways and Imperial Airways. With the outbreak of World War II the aircraft was requisitioned by the Royal Air Force and Commonwealth air forces, where it performed transport, reconnaissance, and training duties, famously supporting the D-Day airborne operations. Post‑war, its gentle handling and low operating costs ensured a prolonged civilian career, and many examples survive in museums and as vintage airshow displays, underscoring the Dragon Rapide’s lasting impact on short‑range commercial and military aviation.
During the late 1930s the Rapide entered airline fleets across Britain, Europe, Africa and the Americas, serving companies such as British European Airways and Imperial Airways. With the outbreak of World War II the aircraft was requisitioned by the Royal Air Force and Commonwealth air forces, where it performed transport, reconnaissance, and training duties, famously supporting the D-Day airborne operations. Post‑war, its gentle handling and low operating costs ensured a prolonged civilian career, and many examples survive in museums and as vintage airshow displays, underscoring the Dragon Rapide’s lasting impact on short‑range commercial and military aviation.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 414 inch
Performance
- Maximum Speed
- 165 mile per hour
- Service Ceiling
- 19350 foot
- Range
- 520 mile
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 731
- First Flight
- 1934
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- de Havilland Aircraft Company
- Developer
- de Havilland Aircraft Company
- Engine
- Gipsy Six
- Operator
-
Royal Air Force
- Wikidata ID
- Q1050763