SUD AVIATION CARAVELLE Meaning and
Definition
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The Sud Aviation Caravelle is a historic commercial passenger aircraft that was developed and produced by the French aerospace company Sud Aviation (later known as Aérospatiale). Often referred to as simply the Caravelle, it was one of the first short- to medium-range jet airliners.
The Caravelle was designed to meet the increasing demand for jet-powered commercial travel in the 1950s and 1960s. It features a distinctive narrow, cigar-shaped fuselage, with engines mounted on the rear tail section. This configuration not only reduced noise and vibration in the cabin but also facilitated easier maintenance.
The aircraft had a capacity for 80 to 140 passengers, depending on the variant, and was known for its versatility and operational reliability. It had a cruising speed of approximately 540 to 600 miles per hour and a range of around 1,400 to 2,700 miles.
The Caravelle played a significant role in the advancement of air travel and contributed to the jet age. It revolutionized short- and medium-distance commercial flying by delivering an efficient, comfortable, and speedy transportation option to airlines and passengers alike.
Although it is no longer in commercial service, the Sud Aviation Caravelle remains an iconic symbol of the early jet age and a testament to the pioneering efforts and technological achievements of the French aviation industry.
