The prototype Comet emerges from the De Havilland Experimental Shop at Hartfield, UK on 25th July 1949 - two days before its first flight. (De Havilland Photo 4222)

The Comet prototype, rolled out at Hatfield on 25 July 1949 and first flown two days later. Photo from: Nationaal Archief (Netherlands)

The prototype Comet 1 wearing its initial "B Conditions" G-5-1 on a test flight nine days after its maiden flight. Re-registered G-ALVG. After many test flights, it was broken up at RAE Farnborough in July 1953. Obtained from DH 60 years ago.

The prototype Comet 1 which first flew on 27 July 1949. It wears the "Speedbird" symbol of the launch customer, BOAC, on its nose. From DH Aircraft 60 years ago.