This aircraft was an experimental fighter, one of a series of planes. 2 prototypes were built and only one ever flew, logging a total of 10 hours. It was of swept wing design; both prototypes were converions from earler variants. The tail was a true “T-Tail” to avoid turbulence over the horizontal stabilizer/elevator surfaces. This aircraft was not very stable and was plagued with engine related problems; it completed a total of 12 test flights. Historically, this aircraft holds a record in the Guinness book of records and also holds another unpleasant distinction which gave the aircraft it’s nickname.
One prototype was retired and spent many years as a gate guard at an airport in California; it was given to the Air National Guard where volunteers spent over 3000 hours bringing it into display condition. The second prototype was apparently scrapped in 1956.
Name this aircraft. Answer by PM only. Do not answer " Was It " or with a question mark. No changing of an answer after your original submission. Any answer submitted after 1200 hrs E.S.T on the day the answer will post will not count. Answer will post on 02/25/07 at 1200 hrs E.S.T.
If needed, a tie breaker will be posted to determine the overall winner of Series #5; a maximum of 3 tie breakers will be posted, if the tie remains at that point, co-winners will be declared. The next trivia series (#6) will commence after that,
Brian [C):-)]