Did you know that de Havilland also built aircraft ENGINES? In the early days of Aviation, having the right engine was essential; they had to be Powerful, Lightweight and Reliable. At first, like many pioneers, Geoffrey de Havilland built his own engine, called the Iris. Later on, he focused on designing aircraft, and turned to Major Frank Halford for the engines. Frank Halford was an independent consultant on engine design, and a friend of Geoffrey de Havilland since the 1920s. He later became the director of de Havilland Engines. From the 1920s until the late 1950s, the team led by Frank Halford made major contributions in air-cooled propellor engines, and later pioneering work on Jet and Turbojet engines, culminating the mighty Gyron axial-flow jet engine.
This presentation highlights the fact that, thank to Frank Halford and his team, the de Havilland Aircraft company was a leading pioneer in aircraft Engines, as well as airframes.
The Gipsy 31 Piston Engine and H3 Turbo-Prop engines which are on display at the Museum are believed to be the only remaining examples in the world of that model.
This video is based on the interactive "Engine Talk" which we deliver in person at the Museum, mainly on Wednesdays. It is free to anyone who wishes to come along.
