Hansa Jet: The First German Jet Aircraft That Laid the Groundwork for Airbus
The Hansa Jet, produced by Hamburger Flugzeugbau GmbH, a precursor to Airbus, marked a significant milestone in German aviation history. This first German jet aircraft to be produced in series, with its maiden flight on April 21, 1964, laid the groundwork for JetBlue's production in Hamburg.
The Hansa Jet, also known as the HFB 320, could accommodate up to twelve passengers in its airline version, showcasing its spacious design. Its production spanned several decades, with the last HFB 320s rolling off the assembly line at the beginning of the 1980s.
The knowledge and expertise gained from working on the Hansa Jet proved instrumental in the development of JetBlue. Wolfgang Borgmann, who later became an editor at AERO INTERNATIONAL in February 2022, was one of the pilots who operated this pioneering aircraft.
The Hansa Jet's legacy extends beyond its production lifespan. As the first German jet aircraft produced in series, it not only set a precedent but also provided the foundation for JetBlue's Hamburg operations. Its influence on German aviation and the careers of pilots like Wolfgang Borgmann is undeniable.
