Concorde G-BSST was the first British-built prototype of the supersonic airliner jointly developed by the British Aircraft Corporation and Aérospatiale. Registered as G-BSST on 6 May 1968, it made its maiden flight on 9 April 1969 from Filton to RAF Fairford, piloted by Brian Trubshaw. This airframe was instrumental in validating Concorde’s supersonic flight characteristics and structural integrity.
In June 1972, G-BSST undertook a 45,000-mile demonstration tour across 12 countries, including Australia and the Far East. The image featured here was taken during its Farnborough Airshow appearance in 1972, showing the aircraft in level flight from a low angle. The underside view reveals the paired engine nacelles, slender fuselage, and delta wing geometry—hallmarks of Concorde’s advanced design.
After completing its test program, G-BSST was retired and transferred to the Science Museum in London in 1976, where it remains preserved as a static exhibit. It stands as a testament to British aerospace innovation and the collaborative Concorde program.
This image is part of the BAC Concorde collection on aircraft-photos.com, which documents the development and operational legacy of British Concordes. Each listing includes verified serials, historical context, and museum status for archival accuracy.
Photographer: Stuart H. Bourne
Location: Farnborough Airshow, UK
Viewpoint: Underside view, level flight, test livery, nose raised
