Testing new aircrft is a dangerous occupation. Both pilots were killed in this crash of a B-17 prototype, the Model 299. JT
Here she is before the crash. Reason for the crash was:- In order to prevent damage by wind to the tail surfaces while the plane was on the ground, the elevators were locked in position. Before takeoff, the pilot would unlock the tail surfaces by releasing a spring lock in the cockpit. The airplane was destroyed on Oct. 30, 1935 when an Army pilot took off with the controls locked, Air Force Link - Aircraft
This was an avoidable accident. The prototype B29 also crashed fatally, into a building, due to engine failure IIRC
Alot more on the accident here including details on the brave men who attempted to rescue the crew. Then info on the second choice aircraft the B-18. Air Force Magazine
Alot more on the accident here including details on the brave men who attempted to rescue the crew. Then info on the second choice aircraft the B-18. Air Force Magazine The above linke no longer works but here is the wiki link on the B-18 Bolo. Seems it beat of the B-17 prototype initially,and was half the price. B-18 Bolo - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Here is a link to another U.S. bomber of the 30's, the B-10: Fact Sheets : Martin XB-10 : Martin XB-10
