FAA Avenger Crew configuration during bombing runs
 

Hi geezahs.

I'm doing an inflight model of a 1945 846 Sqn Avenger and was wondering about what positions the crew would be at during a ship-bombing run. The pilot is obvious (to most) while I guess the Observer would be in the back seat. Or did he actually stay in the back to do Observing or actually bombdrop through the bombbay window? Or was that the Gunner's job? Would he be at the cupola machine gun?

My best guess is that the Observer would be in his seat while the gunner would be looking down through the bomb-bay.

Any info'd be great. A picture would be even better ;)

regards

Kyrre
Harstad, Norway.

Re: FAA Avenger Crew configuration during bombing runs
 

Hello Atckyrre
because the risk of enemy fighter attacks probably would be greatest near target, I would guess that the gunner would man his turret during the attack. I think that was the reason for 3 men crew. IIRC in Fairey Battle in level bombing run the observer bombed and the gunner stau behind his gun. A different a/c, I know.

Juha
Helsinki, Finland

Re: FAA Avenger Crew configuration during bombing runs
 

Juha,

I agree and having discussed this with my fellow FAA enthusiast we've come to the "conclusion" that the gunner must have been positioned in the turret.
It is interesting to note that it seems most FAA Avengers flew without the 50 Cal in the dorsal position, even though it would be natural to actually give the enemy a "squirt" as you flew on. Guess the window was used for observation and photographing hits instead.

Thanks for chipping in.

Kyrre

Re: FAA Avenger Crew configuration during bombing runs
 

Hello Kyrre

one more on RAF practicies, during 1941 shipping strikes one of the tasks of Blenheim dorsal gunners was to observe hits and sometimes also to take pictures on results. Their main task at that time was of course to watch on enemy fighters.

Juha