Rationale for Inclusion
- Pioneering Heavy Bomber Design: Handley Page is best known for pioneering the design of large military bombers, particularly during World War I. His aircraft, such as the Handley Page O/400 and the Handley Page V/1500, were among the largest bombers of their time. These planes set new standards for range, payload capacity, and durability, helping to establish the importance of strategic bombing in military operations. His significant contributions to bomber development earned him the title “The Father of the Heavy Bomber.”
- Innovation in Aviation Safety: Handley Page introduced the concept of the slotted wing, a groundbreaking aerodynamic innovation that improved aircraft control at slower speeds and significantly enhanced flight safety. This feature allowed for smoother landings and reduced the likelihood of stalls, making aviation safer for both military and civilian aircraft.
- Influence on Civil Aviation: Handley Page’s contributions were not limited to military aviation; he also played a key role in the development of civil aviation. His airliners, such as the Handley Page HP.42, were widely used by Imperial Airways, one of the early long-haul commercial airlines. His designs helped to shape the early era of passenger air travel, making it more reliable and accessible.
- World War II Contributions: During World War II, Handley Page’s company produced the Handley Page Halifax, a versatile and crucial bomber for the Royal Air Force (RAF). The Halifax played a major role in the Allied war effort, including strategic bombing missions and support for special operations, reinforcing Handley Page’s reputation as a leading figure in military aviation.
- Legacy in Aircraft Manufacturing: Handley Page founded the first public company in Britain dedicated to aircraft manufacturing. His company set the standard for future aviation enterprises by combining innovative design with practical manufacturing expertise, contributing to the long-term development of the global aviation industry.
Biography
- Early Life and Education: Frederick Handley Page was born on November 15, 1885, in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong interest in engineering and aviation, which would later define his career. He pursued his education in electrical engineering at Finsbury Technical College and University College London.
- Personal Life: In 1918, Page married Una Thynne, and together had three daughters and remained married until her death in 1957.
- Early Career: On qualifying in 1906 he was appointed head designer at Johnson & Phillips Ltd, an electrical engineering company based in Charlton in southeast London. In 1907 he joined the Royal Aeronautical Society where he met the artist and aviation pioneer José Weiss. Weiss was performing experiments with gliders using an inherently stable wing design.
- Founding Handley Page Ltd: Page decided to form his business activities into a private limited Company, and on 17th June 1909 he registered “Handley Page Ltd.” for the express purpose of Aeronautical Engineering, the design and manufacture of aircraft. This was the first British public company for the manufacturing of aircraft.
- In his lifetime, Frederick received a variety of awards and accolades:
- Induction into the International Air & Space Hall of Fame (1987)
- A knighthood for his contribution to the British aviation (1942)
- President of the Royal Aeronautical Society (1945 – 1947)
- Chairman of the Board of Governors of the College of Aeronautics, Cranfield (1953 – 1962)