Avro Anson

A vintage military aircraft

More than 11,000 Avro Ansons were built for the British military and countless other airforces around the world. Today only one military Anson still survives in airworthy condition and is operated by Air Atlantique. 

The Anson first flew in March 1935 and entered service with the RAF as a reconnaissance aircraft. In its day it was leading edge technology and the first RAF twin engine aircraft to boast retractable undercarriage.

It found a niche as a multiple engine trainer. It served with Coastal Command with great distinction as a capable search and rescue machine.

National Museums Scotland is not responsible for the content of this video but it has been selected as it is relevant to the National Museum of Flight.

Avro Anson WD 413

WD 413 served with both Bomber Command Communications Flight and Fighter Command Communications Flight before becoming an instructional airframe at RAF Aldergrove.

Avro Anson GV-ROE in Gloucestershire, June 2012 © Dave Haines

In 1999 she flew to the Middle East to take part in the Gulf Air 50th Anniversary celebrations in Bahrain.  Today GV-ROE (her civilian registration) is the pride of the propeller fleet at Coventry where the Classic Aircraft Collection Trust is housed.

Please note all information is correct at the time of publishing. Flights and timings are subject to change, prevailing weather conditions and operational requirements.