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B-17 crash and fatalities

2K views 5 replies 6 participants last post by  greerhw 
#1 ·
Though this is not strictly Luger oriented, some members here with WWII aircraft interest may find this noteworthy.

On October 2 the historical B-17 bomber “Nine-O-Nine,” part of the traveling fleet of historical warbirds belonging to the Collings Foundation, crashed and was destroyed at the Bradley International Airport, Windsor Locks, Connecticut. Pilot Ernest “Mac” McCauley, co-pilot Mike Foster, and five of the ten passengers aboard perished in the event.

McCauley was “Nine-O-Nine”s full-time pilot, with more than 7,000 B-17 flying hours. The incident was precipitated by engine failure, but there are no further details yet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tf96tktoxEg

--Dwight
 
#3 ·
Very sad due to to the loss of lives and a historic aircraft. Engine failure was one of the number one causes of non-combat aircraft losses during WW2. Losing an engine on takeoff was especially dangerous. If the pilot turned into the dead engine or if he tried to stretch the return, it would end in disaster.
Pat
 
#5 ·
While the '17 had legendary strength and ability to absorb severe battle damage, sadly it appears the pernicious metal fatigue & worn parts have taken they toll on this frequently flown old bird. Even much lighter w/o heavy combat loads the unforgiving years only increase the risk regardless of pilot skill. All said, I'd still love to fly in one with fingers crossed or whirl a Tibetan prayer wheel!
 
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