B-17 crashes at Hartford

These aircraft were designed for an aircrew of fit young men. They had to be able to pass a flight physical. Not to mention that there were crew drills for emergency egress procedures for in flight and on the ground emergencies. Most military aircraft have similar limitations. Even with trained aircrew, well versed in emergency procedures and familiar with the aircraft type, things can and will go wrong. 

Look at this bail out chart and there are four emergency exits: three hatches and the bomb bay. The odds were not good today.

 

But in a way they aren't. Either way, it's really on the operators to make the fights safe. I have to say that all of the rides I've paid for were kind of more adrenaline than sanity.

Our President grounded the Max 8, and it was the right thing to do. And that's an aircraft that has more brains in it's galley oven timer than a B-17 has in it's avionics bay.

A little more oversight couldn't hurt. 

I have no idea why this aircraft crashed- it could have been a bird strike as an example and that happens to any aircraft. But the NTSB is on it, let's see what they come up with.

 

The pilot reported trouble with number four engine shortly after take off and was returning to the airport, according to an Air Force Times article. 

 

https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2019/10/02/world-war-ii-era-b-17-bomber-crashes-in-fireball/

I took a ride on that bird a few years ago,scary to think about.my prayers go out to the families.

Oh My !

    I flew on her when she was here. You sign a release before the flight. There is no way of knowing what an old War bird will do. No matter how well maintained. My old warbird was restored and maintained by a proffessional Aircrew with experience on the Bird. I enjoyed my flight and I am sure they did everything possible to keep her in the air.

     Now that said, My heart goes out to the Passenger and Crew families for their losses. Visionaries will always be remembered. To live momentarily, in the lives and minds of the original aircrew takes vision and courage . May they always soar above everyone else! I have this to remind us about flight.

    To Quote, John Gillespie Magee Jr. RCAF . Deceased. KIA -- 12-11-1941

    Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings. Sunward I've climbed and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds--and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of--wheeled and soared and swung, High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air. Up.up the long delirious, burning blue

   I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark or eagle flew: and while with silent lifting mind I've trod the high untrespassed sanctity of space, put out my hand,and touched the face of God.

   May those who did not return Rest in peace, With love, a former flyer.

   

I was informed yesterday morning through another buddy that a former squadron mate was on board and despite multiple injuries was able to open the rear door and aid others in escaping the aircraft. I'm glad to hear he survived and is recovering. Prayers go out to all involved.

Tanker - Builder

Oh My !

    I flew on her when she was here. You sign a release before the flight. There is no way of knowing what an old War bird will do. No matter how well maintained. My old warbird was restored and maintained by a proffessional Aircrew with experience on the Bird. I enjoyed my flight and I am sure they did everything possible to keep her in the air.

     Now that said, My heart goes out to the Passenger and Crew families for their losses. Visionaries will always be remembered. To live momentarily, in the lives and minds of the original aircrew takes vision and courage . May they always soar above everyone else! I have this to remind us about flight.

    To Quote, John Gillespie Magee Jr. RCAF . Deceased. KIA -- 12-11-1941

    Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings. Sunward I've climbed and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds--and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of--wheeled and soared and swung, High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air. Up.up the long delirious, burning blue

   I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark or eagle flew: and while with silent lifting mind I've trod the high untrespassed sanctity of space, put out my hand,and touched the face of God.

   May those who did not return Rest in peace, With love, a former flyer.

   

 

TB - Very, very fitting.  Thanks for digging that gem out.