Bristol Superfreighter

Bristol Type 170 Superfreighter Mk 32

Company type	Aircraft
Industry	Aviation
Founded	1953
Products	Air ferry aircraft

The Bristol Type 170 Superfreighter Mk 32 represented an extended and enlarged variant of the Bristol Freighter, specifically created for Silver City Airways to operate on short-distance air ferry routes connecting to France.

Production and operation

Deliveries of the initial Superfreighters, featuring a cargo hold lengthened by 42 ft 3 in (12.88 m) compared to the preceding Mark 31, began in spring 1953 for Silver City Airways. These aircraft primarily served cross-Channel routes to continental Europe. One unit was adapted into a 60-seat all-passenger configuration known as the "Super Wayfarer".

Compared with the smaller Mark 31 Freighter, the Mark 32 accommodated up to 20 passengers rather than 12, and could transport three automobiles instead of two when fulfilling its air ferry duties.

Visually, the Superfreighter could be identified by its elongated nose section—designed to house the additional vehicle—as well as a distinctive fin fillet and rounded wingtip design.

A British United Air Ferries Superfreighter is featured in the 1966 comedy film That Riviera Touch, serving as the mode of transport for Morecambe and Wise traveling overseas with their car. The aircraft also makes appearances in the 1965 movie "Hysteria" and the 1969 television series "The Gold Robbers".

Operators

• Air Charter
• Air Ferry
• British Air Ferries (BAF)
• British United Air Ferries (BUAF)
• Channel Air Bridge
• Compagnie Air Transport
• Lambair
• Midland Air Cargo
• SABENA
• Silver City Airways

Specifications (Freighter Mk 32)

File:British United Bristol Freighter.jpg

A Superfreighter operated by British United Air Ferries in 1966

External links

• Photograph of a BUAF Superfreighter at Lydd Ferryfield.