description BAC 221 Overview
The BAC 221 was a British experimental research aircraft used to test aerodynamic concepts for supersonic transport during the 1960s. It was heavily modified from the earlier Fairey Delta 2 airframe by the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC) and completed its first flight in this configuration in 1964. The aircraft's most significant alteration was the replacement of its original delta wing with an ogival (ogee) delta wing planform, which directly influenced the wing design of the Concorde supersonic airliner. Data collected from its test flights provided crucial information regarding high-speed handling.
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What was the BAC 221 built from?
The BAC 221 was heavily modified from the Fairey Delta 2 airframe, including the aircraft registered as WG774. The work was carried out as part of Britain's supersonic research program.
When did the BAC 221 first fly?
The modified BAC 221 first flew on May 1, 1964. Its flight-test work took place during the period when Concorde's supersonic design was being developed. [UK Parliament record on the BAC 221 modification](https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/1964-06-03/debates/d6e32f86-7682-4961-a4b0-3c29df2f5351/FaireyDelta2Aircraft)
Why was the BAC 221 important to Concorde development?
It was used to investigate high-speed aerodynamic behavior and the type of slender ogee delta wing associated with Concorde. The aircraft provided a flying research platform rather than carrying passengers as a commercial airliner.
Was the BAC 221 a production airliner?
No, it was an experimental research aircraft operated to test aerodynamic concepts for supersonic transport. Its British Aircraft Corporation designation reflects its research role, not a passenger-airline service.
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