General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Hawker Siddeley Andover Parcelforce 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 Hawker Siddeley Andover Parcelforce 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 Hawker Siddeley Andover Parcelforce 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 Hawker Siddeley Andover Parcelforce

The Hawker Siddeley Andover was a British aircraft that first flew in the 1960s, primarily designed for military transport. It was notably used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) for various purposes, including tactical airlift missions and paratrooper deployment. This article focuses on a specific adaptation of the Andover, which was modified for Parcelforce, the parcel delivery service of the Royal Mail Group in the UK. This version of the Andover was utilized for rapid and efficient transportation of parcels and mail across regions that were challenging to reach by road transport.

Key Technical Specifications:

Aircraft Overview:

• Manufacturer: Hawker Siddeley
• Role: Military transport (converted for civilian cargo operations)
• First Flight: 1965
• Number Built: Around 37

Performance:

• Engine: Two Rolls-Royce Dart RDa.12 Mk 201 turboprops, providing the necessary power for short takeoff and landing capabilities, essential for operating in rough and underserved airstrips.
• Maximum Speed: Approximately 470 kilometers per hour (292 mph), allowing swift parcel delivery.
• Range: Up to 1,800 kilometers (1,118 miles), suited for covering vast areas without the need for refueling.
• Service Ceiling: Capable of flying at 25,000 feet, ensuring it can avoid lower altitude weather and terrain challenges.

Dimensions:

• Length: 24 meters (78 feet 9 inches), which was compact enough for operations on short and unprepared runways.
• Wingspan: 29.8 meters (97 feet 9 inches), designed to provide stability and lift in varied atmospheric conditions.
• Height: 8.8 meters (28 feet 11 inches), a typical size for aircraft in its class.

Capacity:

• Payload: The Andover Parcelforce variant was modified to carry a considerable amount of cargo relative to its size, with advanced securing systems to ensure the safety of parcels during transit.
• Cabin: Modifications included a strengthened cabin floor and a rear loading ramp, facilitating easy loading and unloading of cargo, which was particularly beneficial for quick turnaround during parcel delivery operations.

Operational Use:

The adaptation of the Andover for Parcelforce was a strategic move to enhance the efficiency of parcel delivery services, especially to remote and hard-to-access areas in the UK. The aircraft’s exceptional STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) capabilities allowed it to operate in diverse environments, from small islands to remote highlands, where traditional transportation methods were inefficient or unavailable.

Conclusion:

The Hawker Siddeley Andover Parcelforce variant stands out as an example of how versatile military aircraft can be repurposed for civilian uses, particularly in specialized roles such as high-speed cargo delivery. Its robust design, coupled with modifications for cargo handling, made it an invaluable asset for Parcelforce, significantly improving the speed and reliability of service in areas with limited access. This aircraft not only demonstrates the adaptability of aviation technology but also highlights the potential for cross-sector benefits between military and civilian industries.