Bristol Buckmaster

Origins and Transformation

The Bristol Type 166 Buckmaster was developed as a trainer variant from the Bristol Type 163 Buckingham, adhering to the British Air Ministry’s T.13/43 specification. This design retained significant commonality with its predecessor. Ultimately, 110 existing Buckingham airframes were converted into Buckmasters through the installation of dual controls and other necessary modifications.

Flight and Production

The prototype Buckmaster made its maiden flight from the Filton factory on October 27, 1944, soon followed by a second prototype. Both initial aircraft were conversions of partially assembled Buckingham airframes. Production of the first units from a series of 100 aircraft began in 1945, with the final examples delivered the following year.

RAF Service and Legacy

Upon its introduction into service, the Buckmaster distinguished itself as the fastest and most powerful trainer aircraft in the Royal Air Force. Its primary role was to provide essential training in “blind” and instrument flying, necessitating a crew composed of a pilot, an instructor, and an air signaler. The last Buckmaster trainers remained in operation until the mid-1950s, with a few units also being allocated for various experimental projects.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Buckmaster
Wingspan, m	21.90
Length, m	14.20
Height, m	5.30
Wing area, m2	65.80
Empty weight	10900
Maximum takeoff weight	15280
Engine type	2 Piston engines Bristol Centaurus VII
Power, hp	1 x 2585
Maximum speed, km/h	566
Cruising speed, km/h	530
Practical range, km	3200
Service ceiling, m	9000
Crew	3 crew

Image and diagram gallery of the Bristol Buckmaster

Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster	Buckmaster
Buckmaster