The BAC One-Eleven (often referred to as BAC-111 or simply "One-Eleven") was a British short-range jet airliner designed and produced by the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC). It was a very significant aircraft as it was one of the first successful short-haul jet airliners in the world.
Here's a short description of the BAC One-Eleven:
- Manufacturer: British Aircraft Corporation (BAC).
- Engines: It featured two Rolls-Royce Spey turbofan engines mounted on either side of the rear fuselage. This rear-engine configuration was common for many early short-haul jets (like the DC-9 and Caravelle).
- Capacity: Depending on the variant and configuration, it typically seated between 79 and 119 passengers.
- Range: Designed specifically for short to medium-haul routes, making it efficient for domestic and regional flights.
- Distinctive Features:
- T-tail: Like many rear-engined aircraft, it had a distinctive T-shaped tail empennage, where the horizontal stabilizers are mounted on top of the vertical stabilizer.
- Clean wing: With the engines mounted on the fuselage, the wing was kept "clean" of engine pylons, which could contribute to aerodynamic efficiency.
- Robust construction: Known for its strong airframe, which was designed to endure the stresses of frequent short-haul cycles (takeoffs and landings).
The One-Eleven first flew in 1963 and entered commercial service in 1965. It was a commercial success, with numerous orders from airlines worldwide, including several in the United States. It was particularly popular for its combination of jet speed and comfort on shorter routes, replacing older turboprop aircraft. The aircraft saw long service with many operators globally, including in the UK, Europe, Africa, and North America.
