Initially known as the Avro 652A, the Anson was developed during the mid-1930s from the earlier Avro 652 airliner in response to a request for tenders issued by the British Air Ministry for a maritime reconnaissance aircraft. Having suitably impressed the Ministry, a single prototype was ordered, which conducted its maiden flight on 24 March 1935. Following an evaluation in which the Type 652A bettered the competing de Havilland DH.89, it was selected as the winner, leading to Air Ministry Specification 18/35 being written around the type and an initial order for 174 aircraft being ordered in July 1935. The Type 652A was promptly named after British Admiral George Anson.
The type was placed into service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and was initially used in the envisioned maritime reconnaissance operation alongside the larger flying boats. After the outbreak of the Second World War the Anson was soon found to have become obsolete in front line combat roles. Large numbers of the type were instead put to use as a multi-engined aircrew trainer, having been found to be suitable for the role, and became the mainstay of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. The type continued to be used in this role throughout and after the conflict, remaining in RAF service as a trainer and communications aircraft until 28 June 1968.
Interior of 12 SQN Avro Anson aircraft; Laverton; 1939. Jack Anderson on left.
Interior of 12 SQN Avro Anson aircraft; Laverton; 1939. Jack Anderson on left.
12 SQN NEG 050-252
Refuelling Ansons at Newcastle Waters; probably during deployment to Darwin, 29 Aug 1939.
12 SQN NEG 050-249
12 SQN Avro Anson N4970 over Darwin Harbour; Flown by PLTOFF J. “Ginty” Lush; 1939.
20 Hourly inspection on Avro Anson Aircraft. Civil Drome, Darwin; 1939.
20 Hourly inspection on Avro Anson Aircraft. Civil Drome, Darwin; 1939.
12 SQN NEG 050-127
Fete held at Civil Drome Parap, Darwin by 12 SQN; late 1939. Wirraways and Avro Ansons.
12 SQN NEG 050-116
Crews of 12 SQN Ansons at lunch, Newcastle Waters; 29 Aug 1939; Enroute to Darwin; CO 12 SQN, Charles Eaton with back to camera (covered in flies).