The Hermes suffered from significant longitudinal instability from the word go - how Handley Page could get there from the aerodynamic refinement of the Halifax is difficult to see. The prototype's maiden flight got out of control on takeoff and crashed after a few miles with the loss of their two principal test pilots, right in front of all the key executives and officials assembled to watch. The production aircraft flew with such a noticeable tail-down attitude that not only did this impact drag but passing aircraft were known to enquire if everything was alright. BOAC junked them within a couple of years, although they had to make a comeback after the loss of the Comet fleet. Independent airlines such as Skyways here were told (straightforwardly, by the Ministry) to buy the aircraft secondhand, to be used on trooping flights - nothing else British made was available and no imports allowed.