The Next Step

ALL who saw the Vulcan delta‐wing bomber at Farnborough last September were impressed with the possibilities of the configuration as the basis for a long‐range civil airliner. Messrs. A. V. ROE have now confirmed the correctness of this prognostication by announcing that they have in its early stages a design for an aeroplane of this type to be called the Atlantic—an appropriate name for a machine which is intended to provide a non‐stop passenger service between London and New York. The cruising speed is estimated to be 600 m.p.h. at 40,000 feet; it will have a span of 121 feet; length, 145 feet; fuselage diameter, 12.5 feet; gross weight, 200,000 lb. Delivery is promised in 1958 subject to a reasonable production order being received. Three alternative layouts for the passenger accommodation have been prepared providing for 94 (basic), 74 (luxury) and 113 (tourist) seats respectively.