The period between the 1920s and 1950s saw Britain make massive advancement in aviation, much of which was fuelled by the need to protect the country from Germany during the ravages of World War II.

This film charts this interesting period in great detail, highlighting all the many aircraft manufacturers in Britain and their respective types that were developed. In a short thirty year period British aviation developed from the bi-plane to the supersonic jet, and the likes of the Vulcan, Valiant and Victor bombers.

But it was during World War II that the greatest variety of British aircraft were produced. The famous Spitfire, Hurricane, Halifax, Lancaster and Sterling all defended the island nation during Britain’s finest hour, the Battle of Britain. After the war, advances in the area of speed and the jet engine saw the famous British test pilots of the day push their new types to beyond what was though possible.

All in all, this black and white film is a terrific look back at Britain’s great aeronautical achievements of the Twentieth Century. Unfortunately the tides of change and political re-focus saw Britain give up its place as a world leader in aviation industrial development.

Watch British Aviation Industry 1920s to 1950s streaming aviation film.