Frank Whittle

SIR FRANK WHITTLE d1996. English engineer, inventor and RAF office who is credited with inventing the turbojet engine. From an early age, Whittle demonstrated an aptitude for engineering and an interest in flying. At first he was turned down by the RAF but determined to join the force, he overcame his physical limitations and was accepted and sent to No2 School of Technical Training to join No1 Squadron of Cranwell Aircraft Apprentices. He was taught the theory of aircraft engines and gained practical experience in the engineering workshops. His academic and practical abilities as an Aircraft Apprentice earned him a place on the officer training course at Cranwell. He excelled in his studies and became an accomplished pilot. While writing his thesis there he formulated the fundamental concepts that led to the creation of the turbojet engine, taking out a patent on his design in 1930. Despite limited funding a prototype was created which first ran in 1937. Official interest was forthcoming following this success, with contracts being placed to develop further engines, but the continuing stress seriously affected his health, eventually resulting in a nervous breakdown in 1940. In 1944 when Power Jets was nationalised he again suffered a nervous breakdown and resigned from the board in 1946. In 1948, he retired from the RAF and received a knighthood. He joined BOAC as a technical advisor before working as an engineering specialist with Shell, followed by a position with Bristol Aero Engines. After emigrating to the US in 1976, he accepted the position of NAVAIR Research Professor at the US Naval Academy from 1977 to 1979. In August 1996, he died of lung cancer at his home in Columbia, Maryland. In 2002, he was ranked No42 in the BBC poll of the 100 Greatest Britons