BOAC Speedbird G-AHZD flying boat and another afloat in Poole Harbour during the Parkstone Yacht Club Regatta, 1947.
The flying boats offered a luxurious, ‘silver service’ way to travel, with only VIPs and the wealthy having the privilege of getting onboard. Because it was a global service, it brought a variety of passengers into our humble harbour, from military personnel and government officials to businessmen, entrepreneurs, entertainers and celebs. Even King George VI and General Charles de Gaulle were amongst the celebrated passengers, not to mention an unusual guest from the Far East – the giant panda, Lien Ho, who was destined for London Zoo.
During this time, the Harbour Heights hotel became the favoured overnight accommodation for the rich and famous passengers, who would enjoy a night by the water’s edge before being transferred to the departure lounge at Salterns. Non-stop trains brought them from London to Bournemouth, their three coaches blacked out to preserve the identity of those inside. And in the early days, a Rolls Royce would be on hand to bring them from Bournemouth to the hotel – a grand entrance indeed!
On 30th March 1948, Poole’s spell as an international airport ceased when BOAC transferred its operations back to Southampton. The buzz of aircraft was once again replaced by the hum of motorboats and flapping of sails – the harbour melody we now know and love. But Poole’s heyday as an international airport has certainly not been forgotten – the Poole Flying Boats Celebration has kept the memory alive, and will do so for generations to come.
