Avro 707 Delta-Wing Research Aircraft Family

The Avro 707 family comprised small tailless delta research aircraft developed to investigate the wing configuration selected for the Avro 698 Vulcan. The prototypes explored low-speed handling, intake arrangements, and pilot familiarisation. Crew accommodation varied: the basic 707 and 707A/B forms were single-seat, while the sole 707C, WZ744, had a wider cockpit with two side-by-side seats and dual controls. The 707C first flew on July 1, 1953, and later supported Royal Aircraft Establishment research into electrically signalled flight controls. The family’s research continued beyond the Vulcan prototype’s first flight, extending its value from development support to flight-control and handling experiments.