It never really got airborne (3)

I believe the answer is:

roc

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'it never really got airborne' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

This is all the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for roc that I've seen before include "Vast legendary bird" , "Old bird" , "Fantastic bird" , "Big bird" , "Gigantic bird of eastern legend - cor!" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app