The DeHavilland D.H.88 Comet, GACSS,was winner of the 1934 England to Australia MacRobertson airrace.Piloted by Charles Scott and Tom Black. The aircraft was named "Grosvenor House" after its sponsor, a luxury hotel in London.financed by millionaire Australian Sir Mac Pherson Robertson.The 11000 mile race was part of the 100th anniverary of the founding of the Australian State of Victoria.DeHavilland delivered three Comets to the starting line. The comets were two place,all wood twins powered by special D.H. Gipsy Six R engines,capable of producing 230 h.p. each.Total fuel capacity was 213 Imperial gallons, with an economy cruise of 223 mph at 10,000 feet,they had a potential range of 2,850 miles.Top speed was 235 mph at 10,000 ft.The Comet was the first British airplane with retractable gear,flaps and controllable propellers.
The Replica Comet pictured above, belongs to Tom Walthen who comissioned Bill Turner to build it.The aircraft was completed in under two years and was first flown by Bill in November of 1993 and has appeared at the EAA Fly-in at Oshkosh numerous times since.This Comet is powered by two Gipsy Queens.The original G-ACSS,has been restored and survives in England,and is a priceless,flyable artifact of Aviation's Golden Age.
Home |
Links
Gee Bee |
|
Pictures |
Golden Age of Air Racing | | Organizations | Book Store | Special Interest | Weather | Golden Age History | Historical Records | Engines | Hangar | Written & Edited by Darrell Graves |