In February the last British-built airliner, BAE Systems' Avro RJX prototype, hopped to Manchester International where it will be the centrepiece of a new static aircraft display. A total of 394 of all versions, including the RJX, were built since the first BAe 146 flew in 1981. Second only to the commercially successful Vickers Viscount in terms of numbers, the squat little four-engined jetliner struggled for life as the fledgling Hawker Siddeley HS146, and entered service as the BAe 146 before evolving into theAvro RJ. Although many believed it had too many engines, it earned a reputation as one of the quietest airliners ever made and probably did more than any other type to guarantee the success of London City Airport.
Source: Flight International
