The de Havilland Comet was the world's first commercial jet airliner, designed and manufactured by the British aircraft manufacturer de Havilland. It made its first flight in July 1949 and entered service with British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) in May 1952.
The Comet was a four-engined pressurized aircraft with a distinctive design, featuring a low wing and a clean, streamlined fuselage. It revolutionized air travel by introducing the benefits of jet propulsion, such as increased speed and decreased flight time, to the commercial aviation industry.
The de Havilland Comet had a cruising speed of around 480 miles per hour (770 kilometers per hour) and a range of approximately 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers). It could accommodate up to 36 passengers in a luxurious and comfortable cabin, setting a new standard for air travel comfort and convenience.
However, the Comet's early success was marred by a series of tragic accidents that occurred in the 1950s, leading to a temporary grounding of the entire fleet. These incidents were later attributed to metal fatigue and subsequent changes were made in aircraft design and maintenance practices to address this issue.
Despite the setbacks, the de Havilland Comet played a significant role in paving the way for modern jet airliners and shaping the future of aviation. It demonstrated the feasibility of jet-powered commercial flight and served as a stepping stone for subsequent jet airliners that followed, ushering in a new era of faster and more efficient air travel.
