note

All cargo airline operator founded by Hugh Kennard distinguished RAF WWII pilot. Kennard and his wife founded Air Ferry in 1961 after he left Silver City Airways as managing director. Air Ferry was taken over by Air Holdings Ltd in 1964. Kennard founded new company in November 1964 called Invicta Air Cargo. Invicta commenced operations in March 1965. In March 1969 Invicta merged with British Midland Airways whereas BMA took over its passenger operations and Invicta became Cargo division of BMA using its DC-4s. Hugh Kennard formed Invicta Ltd as a separate entity from BMA because of his concerns that the merger was not working out. In 1970 passenger charter commenced and company was renamed Invicta International. By 1973, Invicta was in serious financial difficulties. European Ferries Group purchased controlling interest in Invicta. In May 1974 Invicta received its first pure jet when Boeing 720 joined the fleet. In December 1975, European Ferries Group sold Invicta to Universal Air Transport Sales Ltd lead by Hugh Kennard. However, this deal did not include aircraft. Invicta wet leased two Bristol Britannias from IAS Cargo Airlines to restart operations. In January 1977 Invicta purchased Vickers Vanguards. In 1980 Kennard sold company to businessman Horatio De Gama Rose. In 1981 attempted sale of Invicta to Redcoat Air Cargo did not materialize. In April 1982, Invicta ceased operations and went into receivership. Most of its assets were purchased by European Ferries Group.

founded - demised (age)

November 1964 - April 8 1982  (18)

headquarters

, Ramsgate

web

base airports

EGMH Kent International Ramsgate

related operators

Air Ferry	predecessor
bmi