Vickers Viscount 700

The Vickers Viscount 700 was the first production variant of the world’s first turboprop airliner, introduced by the British manufacturer Vickers-Armstrongs in 1953. Developed from the prototype Type 630, the Viscount 700 incorporated the proven Rolls‑Royce Dart engines, a pressurised cabin, and a spacious, low‑noise interior that quickly attracted airlines worldwide. Its capacity of 65 to 75 passengers and cruising speed of about 300 knots gave carriers a modern alternative to piston‑engine rivals, while the turboprop powerplant offered superior fuel efficiency and reliability at medium ranges. The type entered service with British United Airways and later with major carriers such as BEA, Air France, and New Zealand National Airways Corporation, marking a significant shift toward faster, more comfortable regional travel. The Viscount’s innovative features—such as de‑icing boots, advanced autopilot, and a fully retractable landing gear—set new standards for civil aviation design. Over 400 aircraft were built, and the Viscount 700’s success paved the way for subsequent Vickers models and cemented turboprop technology as a viable bridge between propeller and jet propulsion in the post‑war era. Its legacy endures today, with several Viscount 700s preserved in museums and still flying in heritage fleets, underscoring its lasting impact on commercial aviation.

Vickers

Vickers Viscount 700

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Design & Classification