G-AOYP/G-PFBT broken up in South Africa

Reports and photos have been reaching the Vickers Viscount Network stating that Viscount c/n 265 has been broken up at Lanseria Airport, Johannesburg, South Africa during April this year.

G-AOYP while in service with Cambrian Airways in 1972

This aircraft was built for BEA - British European Airways and first flew on the 3 May 1958. During its long life '265' became well known throughtout Europe and beyond flying for many owners and operators including Cambrian Airways, British Airways, British Air Ferries, Air Algerie, Jersey Air Ferries, Virgin Atlantic Airways, British World Airlines, Parcel Force, Heli-Lift and finally Heli-Jet Aviation.

G-AOYP while in service with Virgin Atlantic Airways in the mid 1980's

It was during 1997 that the aircraft was sold to Heli-Lift Ltd who then leased it to Heli-Jet Aviation. It then made the long flight to South Africa where it was withdrawn from use & stored at Lanseria Airport, Johannesburg, South Africa.

The aircraft remained in storage until April this year when it was broken up. Prior to this there was talk of plans to move the aircraft to the SAA Museum and have it repainted in South African Airways livery.

G-PFBT while in storage at Lanseria Airport, Johannesburg, South Africa

The Vickers Viscount Network is interested to locate more information about this aircraft especially its final 9 years when it was sold to Heli-Lift Ltd and was stored in South Africa. If you can help then please contact us at information@vickersviscount.net