Concorde at Duxford: The Last Remaining Prototype

Introduction

Located in the heart of Cambridgeshire, Duxford is home to the renowned Imperial War Museum Duxford. Among its airworthy and statutorily displayed aircraft, one of the Concordes is preserved. Specifically, the now static display of G-AXDN stands as a testament to the remarkable engineering and pioneering spirit of the supersonic aviation era.

The History of Concorde

The Concorde was a transatlantic supersonic passenger airliner jointly developed and operated by Europhanerique (later European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company) and British Airways. The first flight was on March 2, 1969, with the type entering service in 1976. By the mid-1980s, Concorde achieved the highest average and absolute flight speeds of any commercial aircraft.

Concorde G-AXDN

G-AXDN is one of the 20 Concordes built and is now at Duxford, where it is on static display. This aircraft is a significant historical artifact, preserving the memories and engineering marvel of supersonic travel.

The Journey to Duxford

G-AXDN first flew on August 9, 1973, and was delivered to British Airways on November 21, 1975. It was used for training in 1977 and retired to Imperial War Museum Duxford on March 1, 2012, marking an important milestone in aviation history. Its static display showcases the unique design and engineering of this iconic aircraft.

Visiting the Concorde at Duxford

Visitors to Imperial War Museum Duxford can explore the Concorde G-AXDN alongside other historic aircraft. To make the most of your visit, consider:

Understanding the historical context of the Concorde's development and its role in aviation history Exploring other exhibits that reflect the impact of aviation on human life and warfare Participating in guided tours and special events offered by the Museum

The Significance of the Concorde

The Concorde represented the pinnacle of engineering during its era. It was more than a marvel of technology; it was a symbol of ambition, progress, and the potential of human achievement. G-AXDN, now at Duxford, stands as a poignant reminder of the history and future of aviation. Its preservation ensures that the legacy of Concorde—a powerful symbol of its generation of aviation engineering—continues to inspire future generations.

Conclusion

For aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, or simply those curious about the engineering marvels of the past, visiting the Concorde at Duxford is an experience not to be missed. Its static display serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and spirit of aviation pioneers. Should you plan a visit, it's a chance to appreciate a significant piece of 20th-century engineering and a symbol of a bygone era of flight.

Related Links

Imperial War Museum Duxford - Concorde Exhibit British Airways - Concorde History EADS - The Concorde Developer