Airspeed Ltd. Logo

Airspeed Limited

Airspeed Ltd. was a British aircraft manufacturer that operated during the 1930s and 1940s. The company was founded in 1931 by Nevil Shute Norway, an engineer and novelist, and his partners.

Airspeed initially focused on producing small, low-cost aircraft for the private market, but it quickly expanded its operations to include military aircraft as well. During World War II, Airspeed produced a variety of military planes, including the AS.10 Oxford, which was used as a training aircraft, and the Horsa glider, which was used in airborne operations.

After the war, Airspeed continued to produce aircraft, but it faced increased competition from other manufacturers and, in 1951, the company was acquired by de Havilland, another British aircraft manufacturer.

The History of Airspeed Limited

Airspeed Limited was established in 1931 with Nevil Shute Norway as one of its founders. The company aimed to bring cutting-edge aircraft designs to the market. One of its notable early creations was the Airspeed AS.4 Ferry, a twin-engine monoplane designed for passenger and freight transport.

The Airspeed Envoy, introduced in the mid-1930s, was a twin-engine monoplane designed for passenger and mail transport. It gained popularity for its comfort and efficiency. Other civilian aircraft produced by Airspeed included the AS.5 Courier and the AS.6 Oxford.

During World War II, Airspeed made a significant contribution to the war effort by producing military aircraft. The Airspeed Horsa, a large troop-carrying glider, became one of their most notable wartime creations. It played a crucial role in airborne operations, including the D-Day landings in Normandy.

While Airspeed Limited itself did not continue as an independent entity, its legacy persisted through the aircraft it produced, particularly the Airspeed Envoy and the Horsa glider, both of which played important roles in aviation history.

Airspeed AS.6 Envoy - British Interwar Aircraft and Warplanes
Airspeed AS.6 Envoy.
The Airspeed Horsa cockpit.
The Airspeed Horsa cockpit.
Airspeed AS.4 Ferry - British Aircraft and Warplanes - Airliners
Airspeed AS.4 Ferry.

All Airspeed Aircraft and Warplanes

During its existence, Airspeed became known for producing innovative and high-quality aircraft that served various purposes, including civilian, military, and commercial applications. Some of the most notable aircraft produced by Airspeed include

Airspeed Horsa - British WW2 Aircraft and Warplanes - Gliders

Airspeed Horsa

The Airspeed AS.51 Horsa was a British troop-carrying glider developed and manufactured by Airspeed and used during the Second World War.

Read More »