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Billy Bishop

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description Billy Bishop Overview

William Avery "Billy" Bishop was a Canadian flying ace who served in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. Officially credited with 72 aerial victories, he was the top Canadian ace of the war and received the Victoria Cross for a solo attack on a German airfield in June 1917. His combat tactics and aggressive flying style were both highly effective and occasionally controversial among his peers. Following the war, he played a significant role in the establishment of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan during World War II.

help Billy Bishop FAQ

How many aerial victories was Billy Bishop officially credited with?

Bishop was officially credited with 72 victories in World War I. That total made him Canada's highest-scoring ace of the conflict.

Why did Billy Bishop receive the Victoria Cross?

The award recognized his reported solo attack on a German airfield in June 1917, during which he claimed to have destroyed enemy aircraft. Because he undertook the mission alone, historians have debated aspects of the account.

What aircraft did Billy Bishop fly in combat?

Bishop flew types including the Nieuport 17 and the Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5a. He served with Royal Flying Corps units such as No. 60 Squadron and No. 85 Squadron.