WESTLAND

Westland Aircraft was a British aircraft manufacturer headquartered in Yeovil, Somerset. The company started building aircraft in 1915 as a division of Petters in response to government orders for the production of Short Type 184 seaplanes and other aircraft during World War I. The name “Westland” was chosen by Mrs Petter as new land purchased in West Hendford was earmarked for a new foundry, but ended up becoming the center for aircraft production. Westland began designing and building its own aircraft, starting with the Westland N.1B in 1917. After the war, the company produced Woodpigeon and Limousine light aircraft for the civilian market, but their most successful product was the Wapiti close support aircraft. In 1935, Petters split its aircraft manufacturing from its aircraft engine concerns to form Westland Aircraft Limited.
During World War II, Westland produced a number of designs, including the Lysander, which became an important liaison aircraft with the Royal Air Force. However, their designs were generally unsuccessful, with only the Welkin accepted for production. Westland’s factories were mainly used to build Supermarine Spitfires. After the war, the company focused on helicopters and was merged with several other British firms to create Westland Helicopters in 1961.