| Handley Page H.P.24 Hyderabad | |
|---|---|
 | |
| General information | |
| Type | Heavy bomber |
| Manufacturer | Handley Page |
| Primary user | Royal Air Force |
| Number built | 39[a] |
| History | |
| Introduction date | 1925 |
| First flight | 23 October 1923 |
| Retired | 1933 |
| Developed from | Handley Page W.8 |
| Variants | Handley Page Hinaidi |
The Handley Page H.P.24 Hyderabad was a twin-engine biplane heavy bomber designed and produced by the British aircraft manufacturer Handley Page. It holds the distinction of being the last wooden heavy bomber to be operated by the Royal Air Force (RAF).
The Hyderabad was produced as a replacement night bomber for the RAF's Vickers Vimy and Airco DH.10 Amiens bombers. It was a derivative of the Handley Page W.8 airliner, having been originally envisioned to perform additional roles such as transporting troops and coastal patrol duties. It was one of the first large aircraft to be furnished with Handley Page leading edge slats. An order for a single prototype was received by the company on 13 January 1923, which performed its maiden flight during October of that same year. Proving itself superior to the rival Vickers Virginia, an initial order for 15 Hyderabad bombers was issued to Handley Page.
It was introduced to service in 1925 as a front line bomber. A total of four squadrons, half being regular squadrons and the other special reserve units, were equipped with the type. It continued to serve in its capacity as a bomber with the RAF up to 1933, by which point the Hyderabad had been eclipsed by more capable aircraft. In addition to its use in Britain, an export arrangement was sought by the Belgian aircraft company SABCA, but this was rejected to the supposed involvement of the Soviet Union. Potential overseas sales were complicated due to the Hyderabad being placed on the Secret List, making it difficult to share any information on the aircraft.
- ^ Thetford 1976, pp. 283-285.
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