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CanadaJr's CL-44 was derived from the CC-106 Yukon, built originally for the RCAF transport command, which in turn was derived from experience gained on the CP-107 Argus maritime patrol aircraft which used the wings, tail surfaces, flying controls and landing gear from the Britannia. Canadair built a total of 39 CL-44s of which less than a dozen survive today in freighter service. (Canadair)
Profile – Bristol Britannia
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The Bristol Britannia, although a fine aircraft, was denied the production run that one would have expected of it. Its development programme was so protracted that nearly 4½ years passed between its first flight and its introduction into regular airline service. By that time the jet era for the airlines was looming and the large propeller turbine airliner was fast losing its appeal.
In 1943 the Brabazon Committee formulated several proposals for the development of post-war British aviation. One of these, the Brabazon Type 111, was not proceeded with. Early in 1947, the Type Ill specification was split into two different requirements, the MRE (Medium Range Empire) and LRE (Long Range Empire). The British Overseas Airways Corporation notified interested manufacturers of its need for an MRE aircraft. An early answer to BOAC’s inquiries was a proposal by the Bristol Aeroplane Company for a strengthened version of the Lockheed 749 Constellation powered by Bristol Centaurus 660 piston engines. Bristol suggested converting Lockheed-built airframes initially and then eventually build the aircraft under licence at their Filton plant. The UK Treasury knocked this idea on the head because of the drain of US dollars that would have been involved. BOAC then ordered the Canadair DC-4M Argonaut instead.
During 1947 five companies submitted eight designs in response to BOAC’s initiatives. It was the Bristol 175 project which showed the most appeal and this was perhaps somewhat surprising as Bristol had been predominantly a contractor to the military. The Type 175 was initially conceived as a low wing four-engined monoplane with an all-up weight of 94,000 lb, span of 120 feet, powered by four Centaurus 662 engines and carrying either 32 first-class or 36 tourist class passengers. Because of the power of the Centaurus, it was suggested that it would be feasible to enlarge the design and the gross weight be lifted to 107,000 lb. This was investigated and the increase was pegged at 103,300 lb gross weight, span 130 feet carrying either 42 or 48 passengers carrying their baggage, and 1 ½ tons of freight. Alternative powerplants, namely the Bristol Proteus and Napier Nomad were in contention although Bristol was only prepared to guarantee performance with the Centaurus.
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