Originally Posted by
treadigraph
Long time since I've read Slide Rule but Nevil Shute's criticism of the R101 as I recall was after initial trials it needed to be parted and have an additional section inserted, plus it carried one engine purely for reverse thrust when mooring?
The R101 had to use Beardmore diesels because of perceived risk of gasoline engine accidents in Indian heat, adding 10 tons to the ZFM. This would have been slightly offset by hollow metal bladed propellers with reversible pitch. Test failures meant non-reversible wooden blades had to be installed so yes, a reversing engine was fitted. One of many (to our modern eyes) ridiculous features.