angular box-shaped fuselage that was paired with a biplane tail featuring three fins and rudders. The aircraft was powered by three Armstrong Siddeley Jaguar engines, each capable of producing up to 385 hp; one engine was sited at the tip of the aircraft's nose while the other two were mounted between the two wings. All fuel was accommodated within two tanks at the center of the upper wing. The structure was composed of steel tubing, with most exterior surfaces being covered by fabric, including the walls and ceiling of the passenger compartment. This cabin featured a wooden floor, which also acted as bracing, and amenities such as openable windows and a toilet. Baggage was housed with a main hold at the rear, a secondary baggage compartment was located in the nose just forward of the cockpit. Into production Upon reviewing the submission, Imperial Airways decided that the proposed airliner would be suitable for its European routes, and promptly issued an initial order for two aircraft; an additional single aircraft was also ordered by the Air Ministry. On 16 March 1926, the first Argosy, G-EBLF, performed its maiden flight, piloted by F. L. Barnard of Imperial Airways. On 18 June 1926, the second aircraft, G-ELBO, made its first flight; one month later, it became the first Argosy to be delivered to Imperial Airways. The third aircraft, which had been ordered by the Air Ministry, was delivered during March 1927. During 1928, having operated their initial fleet with satisfactory results, Imperial Airways placed an order for a further three Argosies, which was later increased to four. These later aircraft were designated as Argosy Mk. II and were fitted with more powerful Jaguar IVA engines, an increased fuel capacity and the addition of automatic wingtip slots. The first Argosy Mk. II version was introduced to service during 1929. Operational history The Argosy was initially used on European routes (later operating on services to South Africa), with individual aircraft being named after cities. The first passenger flight was from London to Paris on 16 July 1926. Early on, Imperial Airways were keen to demonstrate the capabilities and potential uses for their new airliner; its interior was considerably more spacious than any of its rivals upon its introduction. According to aviation author Oliver Tapper, the introduction of the Argosy led to a rapid expansion in passenger numbers being carried by the airline that started within