Armstrong Whitworth Argosy C.1

The Argosy was a medium range transport, paratroop and supply aircraft. Powered by four Rolls-Royce Dart turbojet engines, and with a distinctive twin boom tailplane design, it became known as the “Whistling Wheelbarrow” in RAF service.

The RAF took delivery of its first Argosy in 1962 and the type went on to equip squadrons based in the UK and the Middle and Far East. The aircraft could carry up to 70 troops in removable passenger seats, 48 stretcher cases or 13,000kg (29,000lb) of freight. This particular Argosy, serial number XP411, entered RAF service on 1st June 1962 with No. 105 Squadron in the Aden area of Yemen. It was then taken on the strength of Nos. 114/267 Squadrons who operated a detachment in the Persian Gulf. It was retired on 22 May 1975 and used for ground training at RAF Cosford until transferred to the Museum in 1987.