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Westland Dreadnought J6986 crash
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Westland Dreadnought J6986 crash
The only Westland Dreadnought, J6986, crashed on its first flight, 9 May 1923. Date: 1923
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Media ID 9905503
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library) / Mary Evans Picture Library
Crashed Dreadnought Westland 1923
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: The Tragic First Flight of the Westland Dreadnought J6986 (1923). This haunting image captures the aftermath of the Westland Dreadnought J6986's ill-fated first flight on 9th May 1923. The Westland Dreadnought, a British three-engine biplane transport aircraft, was designed to revolutionize air travel with its advanced features and impressive size. However, its promising beginnings were cut short when this particular aircraft, registered as J6986, met with a tragic end during its maiden voyage. The Westland Dreadnought, also known as the "Flying Fortress," was a significant development in the aviation industry, boasting a wingspan of 47 meters and a maximum takeoff weight of 12,700 kg. Its three Rolls-Royce Eagle engines were capable of generating a combined power output of 815 horsepower, providing the aircraft with a top speed of 125 mph. Despite the impressive specifications, the J6986's first flight ended in disaster. During the takeoff, the aircraft encountered difficulties, veered off the runway, and crashed into a nearby hedge. The accident resulted in the deaths of three crew members, while the pilot and two passengers survived with injuries. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the risks and challenges inherent in the early days of aviation. The Westland Dreadnought J6986's tragic first flight marked a setback in the development of this innovative aircraft, but it also underscored the determination and resilience of the pioneers who continued to push the boundaries of flight technology. This evocative image, taken shortly after the crash, offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us back to a time when the future of aviation was uncertain and the cost of progress was high.
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