What Happened to the 310 Pilot?
The Boeing 310 was a revolutionary aircraft that marked the beginning of a new era in commercial aviation. Its first flight took place on September 25, 1943, and it was designed to be a high-speed, long-range aircraft that could carry passengers and cargo efficiently. However, the 310’s promising start was marred by a tragic accident that took the life of its test pilot, Edmund T. "Eddie" Allen.
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The Accident
On October 24, 1944, Eddie Allen was at the controls of the 310’s third prototype, serial number 1041, during a test flight at the Boeing Field in Seattle, Washington. The aircraft was configured for a high-speed, high-altitude test, and Allen was tasked with evaluating its performance. As he flew the aircraft at an altitude of around 25,000 feet, he began to experience difficulties with the aircraft’s pitch control.
The Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an investigation into the accident, which revealed that the pitch control problem was caused by a faulty elevator trim tab. The tab was designed to adjust the aircraft’s pitch, but it had become stuck in the "up" position, making it difficult for Allen to control the aircraft’s altitude.
What Happened to the Pilot?
As Allen struggled to regain control of the aircraft, he was unable to do so, and the 310 went into a steep dive. The aircraft was traveling at a speed of around 350 mph when it struck the ground, killing Allen instantly. The impact was so severe that the aircraft was destroyed, and the wreckage was extensively damaged.
The Aftermath
The accident was a major setback for Boeing, which had invested heavily in the 310 program. The company was forced to suspend production of the aircraft and conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident. The NTSB’s findings led to a redesign of the elevator trim tab and other safety modifications to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Significance of the Accident
The accident involving the 310 pilot had significant implications for the aviation industry as a whole. It highlighted the importance of rigorous testing and quality control in the design and production of aircraft. The accident also led to changes in the way that test pilots were trained and equipped, with a greater emphasis on safety procedures and emergency protocols.
Legacy of the 310 Pilot
Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, Eddie Allen’s legacy as a test pilot and aviator has endured. He was a highly respected and experienced pilot who had flown numerous aircraft during his career, including the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and the North American P-51 Mustang. Allen’s bravery and skill in the cockpit had earned him a reputation as one of the best test pilots in the industry.
Conclusion
The accident involving the 310 pilot was a sobering reminder of the risks and challenges involved in commercial aviation. While the tragedy was a major setback for Boeing, it ultimately led to significant improvements in the design and production of aircraft. Today, the Boeing 310 is remembered as a pioneering aircraft that played a key role in the development of modern commercial aviation.
Timeline of Events
- September 25, 1943: The Boeing 310 makes its first flight.
- October 24, 1944: The 310’s third prototype, serial number 1041, crashes during a test flight, killing pilot Eddie Allen.
- 1945: The NTSB launches an investigation into the accident, which reveals that the pitch control problem was caused by a faulty elevator trim tab.
- 1946: Boeing suspends production of the 310 and conducts a redesign of the elevator trim tab and other safety modifications.
Key Statistics
- Speed at impact: 350 mph
- Altitude at impact: 25,000 feet
- Wreckage damage: Extensive
- Cause of accident: Faulty elevator trim tab
Important Safety Lessons
- The importance of rigorous testing and quality control in the design and production of aircraft.
- The need for pilots to be trained and equipped to handle emergency situations.
- The importance of thorough investigations into accidents to identify and correct safety issues.
Remembering the 310 Pilot
- Eddie Allen was a highly respected and experienced pilot who was known for his bravery and skill in the cockpit.
- His legacy as a test pilot and aviator has endured, and he is remembered as one of the best pilots in the industry.
- The accident involving the 310 pilot serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges involved in commercial aviation, and the importance of prioritizing safety and quality control.
