The story
The Lancaster was RAF Bomber Command's heavy hitter, flown on the 1943 Dams Raid and built to haul the 22,000 lb Grand Slam — the largest payload of any bomber in the war. Of 7,377 built, seventeen survive largely intact, and exactly two still fly: PA474 with the RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and Canada's FM213, known as VeRA.
A Lancaster could carry the 22,000 lb Grand Slam — the largest payload of any bomber in World War II.
Quick answers
How do you identify a Lancaster?
Four engines, twin oval tail fins, and a long greenhouse canopy. Only two fly in the world — if you see one, you are seeing a national treasure.
What does a Lancaster sound like?
Four Merlins at once — a rolling thunder that British airshow crowds go quiet for.
How fast is the Lancaster?
Top speed is 245 kts.
How many people does the Lancaster carry?
Typical configuration: Crew of 7.
How far can the Lancaster fly?
Range is about 2,199 nmi.
How big is the Lancaster?
It is 69 ft 4 in long and 102 ft 0 in across the wings.
When did the Lancaster first fly?
Its first flight was in 1941.
How many Lancasters have been built?
7,377 built.
What do crews call the Lancaster?
The Lanc.
How rare is a Lancaster in Bogey?
LEGENDARY. The top tier. Spotters plan trips around a catch like this. Your first Lancaster catch is worth 1,000 points.
