Here we hope into tap the rich vein of European seaplane history. Europe led the world in seaplane design and manufacture, breaking records and expanding worldwide operations to the far flung corners of the old empires. We hope to feature some of the great companies and their aircraft in the months ahead. 

BERIEV BE-200 

SHORTS EMPIRE FLYING BOATS 1936 - 1939 
The history of the Empire flying boats would not be complete without relating the story of the great horseshoe route, which at the very darkest times for the British Empire, kept communications open. This is that story, as told in 'Wings for Tomorrow' by John W. R. Taylor and Maurice F. Allward. 

THE GREAT HORSESHOE ROUTE 

LATECOERE FLYING BOATS 1931 - 1939 

BLACKBURN Flying Boats 1924 - 1940 

SAUNDERS ROE SR/A1 1944 - 1950 
At the 1948 Air Display organised by the Society of British Aircraft Constructors a new revolutionary air defence fighter made its debut to world acclaim. The World's first jet flying boat.
© kenn heeley 

24 Nov 98

 Tel: 44 (0) 1484 85 19 59 Fax: 44 (0) 1484 85 19 59 email: kheeley@hotmail.com