description Fairey FD.2 Overview
The Fairey FD.2 was a British experimental delta-wing aircraft developed in the early 1950s to conduct research into high-speed flight. First flown in 1954, it notably set a world air speed record on March 10, 1956, by reaching 1,132 miles per hour. The aircraft featured a sleek design with ogival delta wings and played a crucial role in developing supersonic aerodynamics in the United Kingdom. In the 1960s, one prototype was heavily modified and redesignated as the BAC 221 to gather data for the Concorde program.
insights Ranking position
Fairey FD.2 ranks #78 of 155 in the Delta ranking, behind Axios Delta, ahead of Nemunas Delta.
help Fairey FD.2 FAQ
What was the primary purpose of the Fairey FD.2 aircraft?
The Fairey FD.2 was a British experimental delta-wing aircraft developed in the early 1950s to conduct research into high-speed flight. It was built specifically to gather aerodynamic data for the development of future supersonic military and civilian aircraft.
Did the Fairey FD.2 break any major aviation records during its testing?
Yes, on March 10, 1956, the aircraft set a new World Air Speed Record by reaching 1,132 miles per hour. Piloted by Peter Twiss, it became the first aircraft to officially exceed 1,000 mph in level flight.
How did the Fairey FD.2 influence the design of the Concorde supersonic airliner?
The Fairey FD.2 proved the viability of a slender delta wing configuration for sustained supersonic speeds. The aerodynamic data gathered from its test flights directly influenced the famous ogival delta wing design later utilized on the Aérospatiale/BAC Concorde.
What happened to the Fairey FD.2 prototype after its testing period ended?
After its record-breaking flights and subsequent testing, the aircraft was eventually retired in the late 1960s. The only flying prototype is currently preserved and on static display at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford in England.
explore Explore More
Similar to Fairey FD.2
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
