BAC 111 British Midland

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts BAC 111 British Midland model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The BAC 111 British Midland model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the BAC 111 British Midland model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The BAC 1-11: A British Midland Workhorse

The British Aircraft Corporation 1-11, often referred to simply as the BAC 1-11, stands out in aviation history as a hallmark of British engineering and innovation. This jet airliner, designed in the 1960s, became a significant player on both national and international stages, particularly under the banner of British Midland Airways, which was one of its most prominent operators. The BAC 1-11’s design, performance, and legacy offer a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal era of commercial aviation.

Pioneering Design:

Developed as the UK’s answer to the burgeoning market for short-haul jet airliners, the BAC 1-11 was one of the first aircraft of its kind to feature a rear-mounted engine design. This configuration allowed for a quieter and more comfortable cabin, a significant selling point in its era. The aircraft’s design also included a T-tail, which was characteristic of many jet airliners of the time.

The BAC 1-11 initially flew in 1963, with British Midland Airways (later known as BMI) becoming one of its key operators. The carrier utilized the 1-11 extensively across its network, benefiting from the aircraft’s ability to operate from shorter runways — a feature that made it ideal for many of the regional airports served by British Midland.

Operational Excellence:

What set the BAC 1-11 apart in the competitive market of regional and short-haul flights was not just its design but also its operational capabilities. With a cruising speed of around 500 mph and a range of up to 1,700 miles, depending on the specific variant, it was both fast and capable of covering significant distances for its class. This made it an attractive option for airlines looking to offer quick and efficient services on short to medium-haul routes.

Safety and Innovations:

While the BAC 1-11 was generally considered a safe and reliable aircraft, its history was not without incidents. These occurrences, however, led to significant safety improvements not only for the 1-11 but also for the industry at large. One notable example was the requirement for direct vision windows for pilots, following an incident where a 1-11 operated by British Midland suffered a windshield blowout. The aircraft’s service history contributed valuable lessons to the development of safety standards and protocols.

Legacy:

The legacy of the BAC 111 is marked by its contribution to the democratization of air travel, making it more accessible to the masses by connecting smaller cities with major hubs. British Midland’s fleet of BAC 1-11s played a significant role in this transformation, offering increased mobility and contributing to the economic development of the regions it served.

Although the last BAC 111 was retired from commercial service in the early 21st century, its impact is still felt today. Many of the routes and markets that British Midland developed with the 1-11 have continued to grow, now served by newer generations of aircraft. The BAC 1-11’s contribution to the aviation industry, particularly in the context of regional and short-haul travel, cements its place in history as a true workhorse of the skies.

The BAC 111, especially as operated by British Midland, exemplifies the spirit of innovation and adaptation. It showcases a period of intense growth and evolution in commercial aviation, marking a significant chapter in the story of flight.