Imperial Airways was impressed with the company's proposal, making the unusual decision to order it into production 'off the drawing board'. On 6 June 1932, the prototype, "G-ABPI", performed its maiden flight, piloted by Alan Campbell-Orde. It received the individual name "Atalanta", which subsequently was applied to the whole class as well. On 27 June 1932, the Atalanta had its first public appearance at the company's Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC) display at Hendon Aerodrome; according to Tapper, it was favourably received at the event.