XBradTC

Xbradtc let the cat out of the bag and let it be known that today marks my 37th lap around that relatively large radiating orb in space (that’s the sun to those of you in Rio Linda). I’ve been working with Multiply Leadership on compiling a list of aircraft first flights list. Here’s a list of aircraft first flights that took place today over the years:

1937 the Macchi C.200 Saetta. The Saetta (that’s lightning in Italian) is probably the best Italian fighter fighter of World War 2.The main problem with the 200 was that their just weren’t enough built to go around. Only 1,153 aircraft were built as the aircraft took 22,000 man hours to complete due to antiquated production techniques.

1942 the Vickers Type 432. A high altitude high speed interceptor powered by 2 of the famous Griffon engines. The 432 featured a pressurized cockpit for the pilot and an enlarge astrodome. During testing the 432 had handling difficulties during taxi and ground handling. the Vickers Type 2 was cancelled in 1944.

1952 the Handley Page Victor. The most graceful and aesthetically pleasing of the Royal Air Force’s V-bomber force the Victor started its service life as a free fall nuclear bomber and ended its service as an airborne tanker.

1953 the Aero L-60 Brigadyr (Czech for brigadier) is a light STOL aircraft used for military liaison in forward areas. The L-60 also enjoyed limited success in the civilian market.

1962 the Aerospatiale N.262. This twin engine turboprop light transport was previously known as the Nord 262. The 262 airliner is in service with small airlines throughout Asia and Africa. The 262 also saw limited service with the Armee De L’Air.

1973 the Kamov KA-27 (NATO ASCC reporting name “Helix”). The unusual coaxial rotor helicopter saw limited civilian service and it’s mostly know as the standard Soviet Navy helicopter deployed aboard its surface warships.

1993 the Yakovlev Yak-54. The single engine, 2-seat, radial engined aerobatic aircraft was built in Russia and became a popular aircraft in international aerobatic competitions.

There you have it. The first flights for 24 December (at least the ones I currently know of). If you’ll allow me dear reader the day permits me to be a bit reflective of how lucky I am to have a great family I can spend time with over the holiday. I’m also that Xbradtc continues to allow me to contribute here. last and certainly not least, I’d like to thank you, dear reader, for liking and commenting. I get to do research and write about things I’m interested in. The most interesting thing here for me is the commenters that have “been there done that and have the t-shirt.” That’s something I’ll always cherish.

Thank you all and Merry Christmas to you and your families.