A Pioneering Place: The past, present and future of Filton Airfield
Filton Airfield is steeped in history. But how did the story of this pioneering place begin? Why did it develop into a world-leading hub for aerospace, engineering and technology? And what does the future hold for this iconic local landmark?
For over a century, Filton has been known worldwide for aviation and innovation. Few places on earth can match its record of ambition and achievement. We’ve dug into the archives to tell the story from when it was first founded in 1910, through to the present day and what the future holds for this icon of engineering history.
From 1910…
Bristol’s aviation industry starts with the vision of Sir George White, who founded the British and Colonial Aeroplane Company before passing the business on to his son, Sir G Stanley White. Over the next 40 years under Sir Stanley’s leadership, Filton is established at the forefront of the aviation industry, renowned as a centre for design, engineering and innovation.
From 1929…
The No. 501 Squadron RAF is based at Filton. By the late 1930s, the squadron is equipped with Hawker Hurricanes and subsequently plays an active role supporting British forces in France. In 1936 the world altitude record is broken at Filton Airfield for the first time. In subsequent years aircraft from Filton broke the record a further six times.
Throughout the 1940’s…
Lord Brabazon of Tara leads a small group of pioneers to develop the Bristol Brabazon – Britain’s largest ever airliner from which this neighbourhood takes its name. The Brabazon’s maiden flight on 4th September 1949 proves a major milestone in the history of aviation and inspires further feats of innovation including Concorde.
In the 1950’s and 60’s…
Bristol’s connection to supersonic travel begins with British Aircraft Corporation at Filton starting work on designing a supersonic airliner. In the UK, Concorde is assembled at Filton, with the British prototype making its first flight on 9th April 1969.
During the 1970s
The legacy of Brabazon and development of Concorde means Filton becomes firmly established as a world-leading cluster for engineering and aerospace firms. The reputation remains to this day with Airbus, Rolls-Royce and BAE systems who all have major facilities surrounding the former airfield.
2000’s…
26th November 2003 marks the final flight of Concorde. The Aircraft makes several swooping passes over Bristol, where crowds have gathered, before returning home to Filton.
In 2012...
Filton Airfield is closed for good. After leading the transformation of the aviation industry in the 20th century, it is time for the airfield itself to be transformed for the 21st century.
Since 2015…
YTL Developments has been developing a bold vision that will see Filton Airfield become Brabazon, a thriving new neighbourhood for Bristol.
