Halifax Plane Production by the London Passenger Transport Board during WWII

Halifax Plane Production INGESTED

A total of 710 Halifax planes were built by the LAPG between 1942 and 1945. The final plane, delivered to the R.A.F on 16 April 1945 was named the London Pride. The work of aircraft production was seen as vital and the London Passenger Transport Board staff received a telegram from the Minister of Aircraft Production congratulating them on their achievement.

Components were delivered to Leavesden airfield for assembly and flight tests before being handing over to the RAF. The first aircraft was successfully flown on 8 December 1941.

Women worked on aileron (a hinged flight control surface usually forming part of the trailing edge of each wing) and rudder assemblies among other things.

The London Aircraft Production Group (LAPG) was formed in the summer of 1940 by the Ministry of Aircraft Production (MAP). It was headed by the LPTB, and comprised Chrysler Motors, Duple Bodies and Motors, Express Motor and Body Works, and Park Royal Coachworks. Together they were to produce the Handley Page Halifax bomber. Each company was tasked with making a section, or components for the plane. It had been designed so that individual parts could then be quickly assembled.

Thousands of LPTB staff, most new to engineering, had to learn how to manufacture aircraft parts quickly and precisely. 50% of this new workforce were women.

The LPTB Works at Chiswick, Aldenham and White City, usually occupied with the manufacture of trains and buses, were turned over to the LAPG. They were responsible for building the centre section, the front fuselage, engines, engine cowlings, stores and spares.

Despite the need to maintain vital transport services during World War II in the face of air raids, wartime shortages and restrictions, the London Passenger Transport Board (LPTB) also played a part in direct war production.