Meteor F.4, RA394 test a/c ?

[Stig Jarlevik]

Alex

RA394 crashed 22.4.1947 with civilian Gloster production test pilot J Bridge killed (some sources say he was a Lt, so possibly ex RAF). He was on the third and final test flight when he had a starboard engine failure (always a critical situation in the Meteor). He tried to land in a very gusty crosswind condition and just did not make it.
I don't believe this aircraft was testing anything special, it was a production aircraft that, due to the above, never was delivered.

RA382 on the other hand was a true test aircraft and was, as you say, fitted with the E.1/44 tail unit.

B Rgds
Stig

[Alex Smart]

Hello Stig,
Thanks for reply.
Yes Bridge, was ex R N.

Cannot find him in findagrave though, or in CWGC.
There is a Bridge , but date of death given as 24th May, 47.
I wonder if this is him or another ?
Also at least two different dates are given for the crash.

Many thanks clearing up the tail question, I was not sure if it was Bridge's a/c.
Thanks
Alex

[Bruce Dennis]

Hello Alex,
I have not viewed the file but AVIA 5/29/ at TNA is report number W2375 covering this incident. The title gives April (no day specified) for the crash.



HTH
Bruce