In 1951, BOAC performed an in-depth reevaluation of its standing requirements, and determined that the airline presently had no need for the Princess, or any new large flying boat. The airline had already elected to terminate its existing flying boat services during 1950. In late 1951, it was announced that construction of the three Princesses would proceed with the intention of using them as transport aircraft in RAF service. However, in March 1952, it was announced that while the first prototype would be completed, the second and third would be suspended to await more powerful engines.