What could have been: Air New Zealand Boeing 707 And Vickers VC-10

When the search of a jet aircaft replacement came about again following TEAL became fully New Zealand-owned in 1961, the three major contenders were the Boeing 707, the Vickers VC-10 and the Douglas DC-8. While selecting either the Boeing or Vickers also meant fleet commonality with either Qantas or B.O.A.C respectively, the Douglas was ultimately chosen for its performance in both South Pacific and trans-Tasman services, as well as having the legs to do access new, lucrative markets in North America and South-east Asia.

Inspired from a photo of Leonard Monk Isitt, then-Chairman of TEAL, viewing models of the 707, DC-8 and VC-10 in Air New Zealand livery.

Special thanks to POTKC for the VC-10 template.