Handley Page O/400
Handley Page · United Kingdom · first flew 1916 · bomber
The Handley Page O/400 was a large twin-engine biplane heavy bomber used by the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force during World War One, representing one of the most capable strategic bombers of the conflict. It was produced in Britain and under licence in the United States by Standard Aircraft Corporation.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 19.16 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Twin fin |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- WWI British heavy night bomber with folding biplane wings
- Two Rolls-Royce Eagle VIII engines in wing nacelles
- Twin rudder tail on a biplane structure
A massive WWI biplane with two large engines in nacelles between the wings, folding outer wing panels, and a biplane tail with twin rudders; the large fuselage accommodating a heavy bomb load is characteristic.
Specifications
- The Handley Page O/400 has a length of 19.16 m (63 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 30.48 m (100 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 157 km/h (98 mph).
- Typical crew: 4–5.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The O/400 evolved from the O/100 with more powerful Rolls-Royce Eagle engines and an improved fuel system, entering service in 1917. It conducted night bombing raids against German targets including submarine bases, rail junctions, and industrial facilities. Over 400 were built.
Variants
The O/400 was the principal production version; a few were modified as early passenger transports after the war by Handley Page Transport. The American-built versions were largely not completed before the Armistice.
Where you'll see it
Served with the RFC and RAF on the Western Front and in the Middle East; several O/400s were operated by Handley Page Transport on early London–Paris passenger services in 1919.
Related aircraft
- Handley Page O/100
- Handley Page Type O
- Handley Page V/1500
- Handley Page Type W
- AEG G.IV
- AEG R.I
- Airco DH.3
- Airco DH.4
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