Built by Shorts in Belfast, XM496 made its first flight on 24th August 1960.

On 17th September 1960 it arrived at Royal Air Force Lyneham where two days later it was taken on charge, being the penultimate Bristol Britannia military transport aircraft to enter service with the Royal Air Force. (Their first was delivered in June 1959).

On 14th October 1997 XM496 returned to the UK and landed at Kemble, now Cotswold Airport, and this was the last last flight by a Bristol Britannia anywhere in the world. It is the only survivor of the original twenty-three strong RAF Britannia fleet.

For the journey home the callsign was "REGULUS".

Home Page

Welcome to the home of the The Bristol Britannia XM496 Preservation Society

The Bristol Britannia XM496 Preservation Society is dedicated to the preservation of the XM496 Bristol Britannia in full RAF Transport Command Livery. The XM496 Regulus is the only Ex RAF fully complete Britannia in the World.

The preservation of "The Whispering Giant" as the Britannia is affectionately known has been a labour of love for all the volunteers who have taken the XM496 from being close to scrap to a fully restored aircraft. For further details of the XM496 story please visit this page where you will find a fully documented history of its restoration.

The Preservation Society is registered with the Inland Revenue as Not for Profit Organisation. Much of it's work is carried out as a labour of love by the many helpers who freely donate their time.

The Bristol Britannia XM496 Preservation Society restrict it's self to the preservation of XM496 Britannia., The Society does however have links with many other organisations and charities. For further details please view our links page.

The XM496 Preservation Society like many others is always on the look out for helpers of all abilities, if you feel you can help then please contact us.

If you would like to sponsor the XM 496 Preservation Society and have a link on this web site then please contact us.