The second prototype Avro Athena T2. Four prototypes VW890 to VW893 were built and only 15 production models of the T2 were made for the RAF. VW891 first flew on 8th January 1949 and after service was scrapped in 1952. Probably seen here at Woodford Aerodrome near Stockport in Cheshire, England sometime in 1949. Scanned from an original Avro photograph from my collection, actual date, and photographer unknown.

Temporarily civil registered as G-ALWA for an overseas sales tour to India in Spring 1950. Written off 27 June 1951 whilst flying for the AIEU (Aircraft Instrument Examinations Unit), when it crashed near the village of Wilby, Suffolk. Both crew on board were killed. Only achieving limited success, fifteen production Athena T.2s were used for armament training by the RAF Flying College at Manby between 1950 and 1955.

The Merlin-powered prototype Avro Athena advanced trainer at its Woodford birthplace during initial trials. Small numbers of the type were delivered to the RAF but did not remain in service for an extended period. As with other types, Avro did not allocate c/ns to their military aircraft production - they viewed the RAF serial as sufficient identification.

The Mamba-engine first prototype. Contract went to the Boulton Paul Balliol but was small production run of Merlin-powered Athena followed. VM125 was written off on August 30, 1949. Date photo is the date of a publicity photo sortie VM125 flew for Avro. Photo from: Civil Aviation Historical Society, Melbourne, Australia

Withdrawn from use 1953. Avro photo. Photo from: Civil Aviation Historical Society, Melbourne, Australia

Temporarily civil registered for overseas sales tour in Spring 1950. Ex and to VR569 and lost in a crash on 27 June 1951.