Following World War 2, jet aircraft technology continued to advance quickly. However, the age of jet propulsion aircraft was very much still in its infancy. Daring pilots pushed the envelope to test the limitations of the jet, jumping at any chance to become the first pilot to achieve particular aviation milestones. After the war, one huge ‘first’ had yet to be accomplished – landing a jet fighter onto an aircraft carrier. Driven by an unofficial friendly competition to beat the Americans to the punch, the British would pick December 3, 1945 as their day to make their attempt. Captain Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown, flying a Royal Air Force (RAF) de Havilland Sea Vampire, launched from a land-based runway, flew to the HMS Ocean over rough seas, and became the first pilot of a jet aircraft to land on and take off from an aircraft carrier.
Here’s to the firsts! Enjoy the story narrated by Captain Brown himself in the video below. We hope you enjoy today’s Jet Friday and that you will share it with your friends. Have a great Friday!
