Why Britain delayed deck-edge lifts

When were deck-edge lifts proven, and why was Britain slow to adopt them?

American experience proved them early, but Britain prioritized enclosed armoured hangars against Mediterranean air attack and distant repair constraints.

American practice proved deck-edge lifts early, but British conservatism had an operational logic. Mediterranean dive-bombing encouraged a fully enclosed armoured hangar with centreline lifts. Openings at the hangar side also appeared vulnerable to direct fire reaching aircraft and fuel inside. Far Eastern deployment still demanded a carrier survivable enough to avoid returning to Britain for major repair. Armour had global value, while the enclosed lift arrangement reflected the Mediterranean threat more specifically.