History of the Short Hythe

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 55 views

**Short Hythe for FSX: A Comprehensive Guide** =====================================================

Introduction

The Short Hythe is a fascinating aircraft that has a rich history in the world of aviation. As a civil conversion of the Short Sunderland III patrol flying boat, it played a significant role in the post-war era, serving various airlines and operators. In this article, we will delve into the world of the Short Hythe, exploring its history, features, and what makes it an exciting addition to the Microsoft Flight Simulator X (FSX) community.

History of the Short Hythe

The Origins of the Short Hythe

The Short Hythe was born out of the need for a reliable and efficient civil flying boat. During World War II, the Short Sunderland III was a patrol flying boat used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) for maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare. After the war, the Sunderland III was converted into a civil aircraft, with several underlands serving British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) from 1943.

The Conversion Process

In 1946, 22 of the Sunderland III aircraft were converted into proper airlines, marking the beginning of the Short Hythe's commercial career. The conversion process involved significant modifications, including the installation of more comfortable seating, improved navigation equipment, and enhanced communication systems.

Service with Aquila Airways

In 1948-49, many of the Short Hythe aircraft were taken over by Aquila Airways, a British airline that operated scheduled services to various destinations in Africa and the Middle East. The Short Hythe continued to serve with Aquila Airways until the 1950s, providing reliable and efficient transportation to passengers and cargo.

Features of the Short Hythe

Performance and Handling

The Short Hythe is a large and heavy aircraft, with a maximum takeoff weight of over 40,000 pounds. Despite its size, the Short Hythe is known for its impressive performance, with a top speed of over 200 knots and a range of over 1,000 nautical miles.

Cockpit and Avionics

The cockpit of the Short Hythe is equipped with a range of advanced avionics, including a navigation system, communication equipment, and a weather radar. The cockpit is also designed to provide a comfortable and ergonomic workspace for the pilots.

Passenger and Cargo Capacity

The Short Hythe has a large passenger and cargo capacity, making it an ideal aircraft for scheduled services and cargo transport. The aircraft can accommodate up to 20 passengers and has a cargo capacity of over 10,000 pounds.

Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Short Hythe?

A: The Short Hythe is a civil conversion of the Short Sunderland III patrol flying boat, used for maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare during World War II.

Q: When was the Short Hythe first introduced?

A: The Short Hythe was first introduced in 1943, when several underlands served British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC).

Q: What was the primary role of the Short Hythe?

A: The primary role of the Short Hythe was to provide scheduled services and cargo transport to various destinations in Africa and the Middle East.

Q: How many Short Hythe aircraft were produced?

A: A total of 22 Short Hythe aircraft were produced, with many of them serving with Aquila Airways in the 1940s and 1950s.

Q: What is the maximum takeoff weight of the Short Hythe?

A: The maximum takeoff weight of the Short Hythe is over 40,000 pounds.

Q: What is the top speed of the Short Hythe?

A: The top speed of the Short Hythe is over 200 knots.

Q: What is the range of the Short Hythe?

A: The range of the Short Hythe is over 1,000 nautical miles.

Conclusion

The Short Hythe is a fascinating aircraft with a rich history in the world of aviation. From its origins as a civil conversion of the Short Sunderland III patrol flying boat to its service with various airlines and operators, the Short Hythe has played a significant role in the development of commercial aviation. With its impressive performance, advanced avionics, and large passenger and cargo capacity, the Short Hythe is an exciting addition to the Microsoft Flight Simulator X (FSX) community.

Specifications

Maximum Takeoff Weight: 40,000 pounds
Top Speed: 200 knots
Range: 1,000 nautical miles
Passenger Capacity: 20
Cargo Capacity: 10,000 pounds
Crew: 4-5
Length: 70 feet
Wingspan: 100 feet
Height: 20 feet

References

"Short Sunderland III." Imperial War Museums, www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30023519.
"Short Hythe." Flight International, 1950.
"Aquila Airways." Flight International, 1950.

Note: The specifications listed above are approximate and may vary depending on the specific aircraft and configuration.