How many orders did the Avro Canada Jetliner receive?

Short answer

None firm: the attention it drew never turned into orders. National Airlines negotiated for four aircraft with an option on six more, and Howard Hughes wanted 30 for TWA, but Avro turned him down repeatedly over limited capacity and the CF-100. The programme was cancelled in December 1951.

Published: November 4, 2026 · Updated: November 4, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

How many orders did the Avro Canada Jetliner receive?

Avro Canada C102 Jetliner model

From public attention to an empty order book

Although the Jetliner had attracted considerable public attention, that did not immediately translate into orders. The aircraft was seen as well suited to the congested routes of the US East Coast and drew intense interest, especially from Howard Hughes. It also caught the attention of at least six airlines, as well as the US Air Force and Navy.

Negotiations that never resulted in a signature

American carrier National Airlines held talks with Avro about possibly buying four Jetliners, with an option on six more. Hughes tried to buy 30 Jetliners for TWA, but Avro had to turn him down repeatedly because of its limited manufacturing capacity and the workload of the CF-100 project. Convair was especially interested, to the point of considering setting up its own production line for the type.

A prototype and an abrupt ending

The Jetliner made its first flight on 10 August 1949. On its second flight, on 16 August, the landing gear failed to extend and the aircraft had to make a belly landing. Availability problems with the Avon engine led to the decision to fit four Rolls-Royce Derwents instead. Howe ordered Avro to suspend work on its other projects, including the Jetliner, to concentrate resources on completing the CF-100. C. D. Howe ordered the programme's cancellation in December 1951.