Armstrong Whitworth Argosy AW.650/660 Aircraft Manuals Collection
This comprehensive digital collection contains authentic technical documentation for the Armstrong Whitworth Argosy, the distinctive British turboprop transport aircraft that served with distinction in both military and civilian roles. These original manuals represent the actual documentation used by RAF crews, maintenance personnel, and civilian operators throughout the aircraft's operational service life.
Manuals Included in This Collection:
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Operating Data Manual - Essential flight planning and performance data
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Service Manual (English Language) - 4745A - 1962 - Comprehensive maintenance procedures
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Structural Repair Manual (English Language) - A.P. 101B-2400-6A1 - Detailed structural repair guidance
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Service Manual (English Language) - A.P. 101B-2401-1A - Complete servicing procedures
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Service Manual (English Language) - A.P. 101B-2401-1B - Additional servicing documentation
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Service Manual (English Language) - A.P. 101B-2401-1C - Supplementary service information
- Armstrong Whitworth Argosy Aircraft Pilot's Notes Manual (English Language) - A.P. 101B-2401-15 - Official RAF pilot operating handbook
Historical Note: The Armstrong Whitworth Argosy
The Armstrong Whitworth Argosy holds a unique place in British aviation history as one of the most distinctive transport aircraft of the post-war era. Designed in the late 1950s by Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft, the Argosy featured an unconventional twin-boom configuration with a high-mounted wing and four Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines, creating an instantly recognizable silhouette that set it apart from conventional transport designs.
First flown on 8 January 1959, the Argosy was developed to meet both military and civilian transport requirements. The Royal Air Force became the primary military operator, designating the aircraft as the Argosy C.Mk.1 and placing it into service with No. 114 Squadron and No. 267 Squadron beginning in 1962. The RAF operated 56 Argosy aircraft, utilizing them extensively for tactical transport duties, including troop deployment, cargo hauling, and supply missions across Europe, the Middle East, and Far East theaters throughout the 1960s and early 1970s.
The aircraft's unique twin-boom design provided several operational advantages: the rear-loading cargo ramp allowed for straight-in loading of vehicles and bulky equipment, the high wing kept engines and propellers clear of ground debris on unprepared airstrips, and the spacious 49-foot cargo hold could accommodate a wide variety of military vehicles, artillery pieces, and supplies. With a maximum payload of approximately 28,000 pounds and the ability to operate from semi-prepared runways, the Argosy proved invaluable for tactical airlift operations.
In civilian service, the Argosy AW.650 variant attracted operators seeking a reliable freighter aircraft. Airlines including Riddle Airlines, Safe Air, and BEA Airtours operated the type for cargo and specialized transport missions. The aircraft's robust construction, excellent short-field performance, and large cargo capacity made it particularly suitable for freight operations in challenging environments.
Production totaled 74 aircraft between 1959 and 1964, comprising both military C.Mk.1 variants and civilian AW.650/660 models. The RAF retired its Argosy fleet in 1975, replacing them with the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, though several civilian operators continued flying the type into the 1990s. Today, the Argosy is remembered fondly by aviation enthusiasts for its unconventional design, reliable service, and the distinctive sound of its four Dart engines.
These original technical manuals represent authentic documentation used throughout the Argosy's distinguished service career. They provide invaluable reference material for aviation historians, aircraft restorers working on preserved examples, researchers studying post-war British transport aircraft development, and enthusiasts of this remarkable and distinctive aircraft.
What You Receive:
Instant digital download access to all seven comprehensive manuals in PDF format, preserving the original technical illustrations, diagrams, specifications, and procedures exactly as they were used by RAF crews and civilian operators during the aircraft's operational service.
Disclaimer: This item is sold for historical and reference Only. These are either ORIGINAL or COPIES of manuals and blueprints used when these aircraft were in active duty, now transferred into electronic format. These manuals and blueprints are not meant to be used for current update material for certification / repair, but make an excellent reference for the scholar, collector, modeller or aircraft buffs .... For proprietary reasons, we generally only provide civil manuals and blueprints on obsolete Aircraft / Engines / Helicopter. The information is for reference only, and we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy or currency of any manuals.Reference herein to any specific commercial products by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, is not meant to imply or suggest any endorsement by, or affiliation with that manufacturer or supplier. All trade names, trademarks and manufacturer names are the property of their respective owners.