From the very inception of the aviation industry, it has been a place for those with ideas, looking for a new challenge. The test pilot someone who can put their faith in an aircraft with unproven capabilities and take it to the unknown is vital to this. Behind every success of the aircraft we see today are many that did not even make it to production.

The first flight is the ultimate test of theories, often in a harsh way. Some, their maiden and last flight. These were disasters, but they contributed greatly to flight. They show that creativity and risk are a natural part of the process and that even unsuccessful designs form an important part of advancement in future engineering designs.

1. Northrop XP-79B

In the mid-1940s, the Northrop XP-79b prototype was a radical leap in aircraft design, and showed how far designers were willing to experiment with new ideas. The rocket-powered flying wing design broke with the norms of aircraft design. Its magnesium structure, for lightness, was a potential fire hazard and susceptible to contamination.

Key Design Highlights:

• Innovative flying wing design
• Rocket-powered propulsion system
• Magnesium-based construction
• Emphasis on lightness
• Modern design at the time

On September 12, 1945, the plane was ready to take its first flight and the designers and onlookers were optimistic. It appeared the concept might be a success. But, just a few minutes later, it was uncontrollable. The pilot, Harry Crosby, was able to bail out, but unfortunately was struck by the plane while descending and was killed, along with the project.

2. De Bruyre C 1

During World War I, there was a rapid advancement in aircraft design and various configurations were tried to assist the war effort. The De Bruyre C 1 was unusual in its canard-wing configuration, in which the smaller wing was placed at the front and the larger wing at the back of the aircraft. The design was to help with the pilot’s forward view and to improve the plane’s manoeuvrability, and was an alternative to the more traditional aircraft designs of the period.

Notable Features:

• Canard-style wing configuration
• Rear-mounted main wing
• Pusher propeller system
• Emphasis on visibility
• Experimental wartime design

The plane was well designed, but it didn’t fly so well in its maiden test. On its first test, it flew only about 25 feet before it stalled and crashed to the ground. Fortunately, the pilot wasn’t hurt. The issue with the aircraft was obvious it was unable to maintain altitude and the project was cancelled.

3. Tarrant Tabor

The Tarrant Tabor was an ambitious project, reflecting the bigger nature of aviation projects in the post-world war I years. It was constructed in 1919 and was one of the largest aircraft ever. It was a long-range heavy-night bomber, the size and complexity of this aircraft pointed to the future of aviation.

Key Characteristics:

• Massive multi-engine bomber
• One of the world’s largest aircraft
• Wooden fuselage construction
• Long-range bombing purpose
• Modern for its time

On its maiden test flight, a critical design issue that had not been detected was revealed. As it accelerated down the runway, the nose of the aircraft tipped forwards and the plane somersaulted in the air. The pilots were instantly killed. The crash pointed to issues that led to the project being shut down.

4. Blackburn Pellet

The Blackburn Pellet was a project for the prestigious Schneider Trophy, which pushed aircraft to go faster and faster. It was to be a sleek and elegant flying boat. However, the aircraft was beset with problems, and its race-worthiness was questionable.

Development Challenges:

• Designed for Schneider Trophy race
• Flying boat design
• Often delayed production
• Technical reliability concerns
• Performance-focused engineering

In its first public outing, the issues were apparent and the aircraft crashed. The plane collided with a boat while still on the water, and was destroyed before it could take flight. Fortunately, the pilot was unhurt. Despite the success, the accident caused the project to be shelved.

5. Westland Dreadnought

The Westland Dreadnought was planned as an experimental aircraft, rather than for use. It was designed to test new theories and concepts of metal aeroplane design. The plane was built with an integrated aerofoil design, using the entire aircraft to provide lift, rather than just the wings.

Experimental Focus Areas:

• Metal construction techniques
• Unified aerofoil design
• Scientific research purpose
• Ground testing prior to takeoff
• Aerodynamic performance

When it flew for the first time on May 9, 1924 it was clear it was not right. It ascended for a short time, but then became unmanageable, stalling at low altitude. It crashed with considerable force, throwing the pilot out of his seat and causing severe injuries in which he lost both legs. The crash spelled the end of the experimental aircraft project.

6. Renard R.35

The Renard R.35 was an innovative commercial aircraft design from the late 1930s, which prioritised passenger comfort. As a pressurised aircraft, it was intended to enhance comfort for longer trips by operating at higher altitudes. This was a major stride towards the modern-day flying experience.

Innovation Highlights:

• Pressurised cabin design
• Long-haul travel capability
• Emphasis on comfort
• Modern for its era
• Commercial aviation ambitions

While conducting a fast taxi test, the aircraft unexpectedly took to the air, resulting in an uncontrolled situation. While it was able to make a short flight, the aircraft suddenly became uncontrollable. Unfortunately, the plane crashed shortly after, resulting in the pilot’s death. The crash put an immediate end to the project, and a potential breakthrough in aircraft design.

7. Napier-Heston Racer

The Napier-Heston Racer was designed specifically for the purpose of speed, making it a highly specialised aircraft. It featured a powerful engine to achieve maximum performance. But its design focus on speed sometimes sacrificed stability and reliability.

Performance Features:

• Designed for record breaking
• Powerful engine
• Lightweight design focus
• High-performance engineering
• Practicality not a priority

The first test flight immediately highlighted several mechanical and control problems that rendered the aircraft hard to control. Issues with overheating and elevator control soon became apparent shortly after takeoff. It only flew a short distance for a few seconds before crashing. The pilot was found to be unharmed but the aircraft was considered unsafe and was thus abandoned.

8. The Langley Aerodrome

Samuel Langley’s Aerodrome was one of the most significant attempts to achieve the first powered flight before the Wright brothers. The airship was supported by years of research and considerable funding, and was meant to achieve sustained flight. It was designed following the success of smaller models, with anticipation of a breakthrough.

Early Aviation Efforts:

• Pre-Wright brother’s design
• Based on previous research designs
• Catapult launch system
• Funded scientific project
• Powered flight

Despite the confidence and planning for the project, the two attempts were spectacular failures. In both cases, the plane crashed into the water shortly after take-off. These events tarnished Langley’s reputation. While subsequent modifications led to short flights, questions remain as to whether this was the original design, or a more heavily modified aircraft.

9. Bachem Ba 349 Natter

The Bachem Ba 349 Natter was a late-war development to combat enemy bombers. It was meant to be launched vertically, which allowed for an innovative use of the aircraft. The plan was for it to engage its target rapidly and then for the pilot to bail out and the aircraft to land safely using a parachute.

Unique Design Elements:

• Vertical launch system
• Rocket-powered engine
• Interceptor role
• Pilot ejection concept
• Reusable fuselage design

In its single manned mission, the plane took off as planned. But shortly afterwards, it encountered severe problems and crashed. The pilot was most likely disabled by a malfunctioning canopy. The plane soon after crashed, bringing the project to a close. This is one of the more exotic and tragic cases of experimental aviation.

10. Christmas Bullet

The Christmas Bullet was different from other experimental aircraft because of the dubious claims made about its development. It was claimed to be highly innovative, incorporating new technologies that were unproven. This aircraft was not built on sound engineering principles, as is the case with many experimental aircraft.

Questionable Claims:

• Claimed innovative wing design
• Claimed lightweight structure
• Promoted as revolutionary
• Not properly engineered
• Designed with false information

It crashed on its maiden flight after the wings broke off in mid-air due to lack of strength. The pilot was killed and the aircraft’s poor design was revealed. Nonetheless, the inventor continued to make inflated claims about the plane. The Christmas Bullet is a reminder of the consequences of putting ambition before engineering principles.