Adventurous Empires

A milestone in twentieth century aviation is brought to life in this chronicle of the Short Empire, the plane that transformed British global transportation.

In 1937, the Short Brothers aerospace company introduced the most successful flying-boat airliner ever built. Designed to a specification for Imperial Airways, then Britain’s national airline, the Short Empire flying-boat carried passengers and, more importantly, mail throughout the British Empire. The airliner offered luxurious travel for the privileged few, every journey being an adventure shared by passengers and crew.

Short Brothers built forty-two Empires at their factory in Rochester during the late 1930s. This fleet enabled Imperial Airways to expand their network to the furthermost outposts of the British Empire, whilst laying down the principles of scheduled airline operation. During World War II, the Short Empire was adapted for military use as the iconic Sunderland.

Adventurous Empires chronicles how this innovative craft was developed and deployed, turning an aviation dream into reality.