The British Airways Family Tree: Part 5 Dan-Air London

Dan-Air London, a cornerstone of British aviation, emerged in 1953 from the unlikely partnership of a shipbroking firm, Davies and Newman. What began as a venture to utilize a surplus aircraft blossomed into a formidable airline. Initially operating cargo and passenger charters from Southend and later Blackbushe, Dan-Air’s trajectory accelerated with the move to Gatwick in 1960, marking a pivot towards inclusive tour charters and year-round scheduled services. A strategic acquisition of Scottish Airlines in 1961 expanded its reach, while the incorporation of Skyways International in 1972 further solidified its position. Renowned for its pioneering spirit, Dan-Air was the first to operate the Comet 4 and the BAe 146, showcasing its commitment to technological advancement. However, the landscape of aviation was shifting. The creation of British Airways in 1974 heralded a new era of consolidation. Despite its robust operations and loyal customer base, Dan-Air found itself in the crosshairs of industry change. Ultimately, in 1992, its legacy merged with British Airways, marking the end of an independent era but ensuring its contributions to British aviation would endure.
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[@unofficialairspaceshorts]

Shoudln't the opening title say "Part 5" :D

[@AirlinerHistory]

In fact it should. Too late now :D

[@bfc3057]

Otherwise known in the UK in its time as Dan Dare - a UK comic book hero character that lived a daring and dangerous life - much like Dan Air's passengers.
A lot of cheap old aircraft and not a great safety record.
BA bought them for £1 to stop anybody else buying them and removed Dan Air as a competitor.
There was also at the time a Danish airline called Danair.