The RAF's only loss of a VC10 occurred at Brize Norton in 1997, when during defuelling a stationary aircraft tipped up on its tail leaving the airframe damaged beyond repair.The introduction in the 1970's of wide bodied Airliners such as the 747 Jumbo saw the VC10 becoming uneconomical to operate which led to its withdrawal from passenger service. The VC10's safety record did not remain unblemished, however for all the hours flown just two crashes claimed lives. These qualities actually caused passengers to request the VC10 when given the choice, and BOAC used this to its advantage when advertising with the phrases 'Swift and silent' and 'A little VC10derness' the main operators were BOAC & East African Airways.Hercules C130K and VC10 from 1312 Flight. The rear engined layout of the VC10 made for a quiet cabin and its efficient wings gave it a very smooth ride in turbulence. The VC10 was held in very high regard by both Crew and the passengers who flew on it.
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The VC10 has taken its place in History and several are preserved in UK Museums. The final flight of a VC10 was on the 25th September 2013. The last operations the VC10's took part in was Libya in 2011.In 2013 the RAF retired it VC10's from Military service, replacing them with the Airbus A330 MRTT Tanker. The aircraft was also fitted with a nose mounted refueling probe.The VC10 served in all recent Major conflicts including the Falklands war in 1982 in which it also refueled the Vulcan bomber sent to bomb Stanley Airfield (operation Black Buck) In 1991 VC10's were part of operation desert storm and later they saw action in Afghanistan against the Taliban as well as Refueling NATO aircraft during the air-strikes against Serbia. The HDU could transfer fuel up to 2000kgs per minute and was usually used to refuel 'heavy' strategic aircraft, although it could also be used by fast-jet aircraft. The wing hoses could transfer fuel at up to 1000kgs per minute and were used to refuel tactical fast-jet aircraft.
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