Vickers VC10

The Vickers VC10 is a British long-range jet airliner designed for operation on long-distance routes from short runways, particularly for routes to Africa and Asia. Developed in the late 1950s and first flown in 1962, it featured four rear-mounted Rolls-Royce Conway engines and a distinctive T-tail configuration. The VC10 was designed with exceptional "hot and high" performance, allowing it to operate from high-altitude airports and in hot climates with full payload. Known for its powerful engines, quiet cabin, and excellent safety record, the VC10 was popular with passengers and crew alike. The family includes the Standard VC10 and the stretched Super VC10 with increased capacity and range. A total of 54 commercial aircraft were built, serving primarily with BOAC and other airlines until the early 1980s. The type also served extensively with the RAF as a transport and air refueling tanker until 2013.