The de Havilland Aircraft Company was a British manufacturer of aeroplanes, engines and propellers. Founded by Geoffrey de Havilland in 1920, it became associated with light aircraft, fast wartime machines and early commercial jets. Its industrial centre developed from Stag Lane to Hatfield.[1]
Foundation and civil markets
Former Airco chairman George Holt Thomas helped finance the enterprise. Further investment from Alan Butler strengthened the business; Butler became chairman in 1924, leaving de Havilland more time for design. The Moth light-aircraft family followed in 1925, providing a successful foundation for private flying and training. The company also established manufacturing operations in Canada and Australia and supplied engines and propellers to other builders. The Dragon and Dragon Rapide extended its presence in commercial transport.[1]
The Mosquito programme
The DH.98 Mosquito represented a different use of the company's experience. Its development emphasised speed and a largely wooden structure, and the aircraft served in reconnaissance, bomber and fighter roles. The prototype flew during 1940 and underwent extensive performance and handling trials. Production required collaboration between aircraft workers and firms experienced in woodworking, while successive versions adapted the design to different operational equipment and tasks. The resulting programme became one of de Havilland's defining contributions to wartime aviation.[2]
Jets and consolidation
Post-war projects included the Vampire, Comet, Sea Vixen, Trident and DH.125 business jet. The Comet's early structural failures interrupted its commercial lead, although improved versions returned to service. During industrial consolidation, the business became part of Hawker Siddeley, with the de Havilland divisional identity changing in 1963. Hatfield continued aircraft work under its successors until the factory closed in 1993.[1]