Ralph Hooper RIP

[Mike Pryce]

I've just heard that Harrier and P1216 designer Ralph Hooper passed away yesterday.

He was 96, and in my view, Britain's greatest ever aircraft designer.

Ralph explained his achievements modestly but clearly to the many who asked.

Glad we asked him to do so for a video a few years back.

View: https://youtu.be/W8KxWYBOlQQ

Rest in peace.

 

[SteveO]

RIP Sir. The Harrier is my favourite aircraft and the P.1216 is my favourite what if design.

 

[Grey Havoc]

Rest In Peace.

His Wikipedia entry hasn't been updated with the sad news yet.

 

[CJGibson]

Rest In Peace.

His Wikipedia entry hasn't been updated with the sad news yet.

Sorry to hear this. I only met him once and he was a gent.

Chris

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Like Chris, only met him once, but a very nice man. Bemused by my interest in the P.1121 specifically, but happy to share his knowledge.

Very sad.

 

[uk 75]

Always sad to lose men of vision. But we were lucky to have him with us for so long and that he shared his knowledge.

Blue Skies!

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

From Tony Buttler:

I visited the Hawker Association back in the summer for a talk and Ralph was able to attend. But he was very frail and this news is not a surprise.

But many years ago he helped me when I was just starting out. The UK owes Ralph Hooper a great deal for what he gave us. A great man!

 

[pathology_doc]