BAC 111

1965’81

Plane & Pilot

Friday, May 01, 2009 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

The BAC 111 is a British-built, twin-engine airliner designed for short- and medium-range operations, first certified for United States operation in April 1964 and adopted by major airlines.
The aircraft evolved through multiple series (e.g., 200, 300, 400, 475, 500), introducing improvements like larger engines, greater fuel capacity, stronger landing gear, and specialized features for various operational needs, including low-strength runways.
Beyond its standard passenger configuration, the BAC 111 is also available in executive and freighter versions, with modified interiors offered for executive use.

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The BAC 111, built by the British Aircraft Corp., was designed for both short- and medium-range operation. This twin-engine airliner was first certified for United States operation in April 1964, and orders were placed by Mohawk, Braniff, and American Airlines. The first production model, the Series 200, flew for the first time in December 1963 and was powered by the smaller Rolls-Royce 10,330-lb. s.t. engines. The 300 Series were fitted with larger engines, greater fuel capacity, and a stronger landing gear. The 400 Series came equipped with a fuel dump system and was the first model certified for United States operation. The 475 series is fitted with low-pressure tires to permit operation on lowstrength runways with surfaces of poorer grade. The final series, the 500, is a stretched version that can carry up to 119 passengers. Executive and freighter versions of the BAC 111 are also available. National Aircraft Leasing Ltd. offers a modified version for executive use; it features a redesigned interior.