“The biggest threat wasn’t the Germans. It was the cold.” Inside the Avro Lancaster’s brutally spartan WWII missions and the crews who endured them.
Aviation was pretty spartan back in the 40s by today’s standards. Planes weren’t pressurized, heat was nearly non-existent, and the quarters were cramped. There were operational hazards at every turn. If every bit of exposed skin wasn’t covered, you could get frostbite in seconds.
Yet the heroes of World War II battled the elements to defend freedom in Europe. They were brave men.
Take a tour of the interior of this Avro Lancaster, affectionately known to avgeeks as “the Lanc.” You’ll learn some fascinating facts about a bomber that helped turn the tide of war against the Nazis in Europe. Liz Dodds and Andrew Panton are your hosts. They’ll provide some fascinating facts mixed with a little dry British humor. The 25-minute video, uploaded by Rob Hayton, provides a comprehensive look at the exterior, interior, and even the cockpit of this pivotal aircraft.
The Avro Lancaster was a mid-wing, cantilever heavy bomber powered by four wing-mounted Rolls-Royce Merlin piston engines. It earned its reputation during the Second World War, becoming one of Britain’s most famous bombers through its extensive combat service.
The Lanc featured an oval-shaped, all-metal fuselage divided into five main sections, along with similarly sectioned wings. Its aft was distinguished by its twin elliptical fins and rudders, a hallmark of its design.
One notable feature of the Avro Lancaster was its unobstructed bomb compartment, which was more than 33 feet long. The Avro Lancaster was capable of holding the largest bombs in the RAF. Then bulged doors were added so the aircraft could carry even bigger bombs. The Avro Lancaster could eventually hold a bomb that weighed 12,000 pounds.
The Avro Lancaster was designed and built by Avro for the Royal Air Force (RAF). Its maiden voyage was on 9 January 1941. The aircraft was introduced into service in 1942. Primary users of the Avro Lancaster were the Royal Air Force, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the Royal Australian Air Force.
Between 1941, when the first one was built, and 1963, when the model was retired, 7,377 Avro Lancaster aircraft were manufactured.
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