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Folland Fo. 139 Midge G-39-1
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Folland Fo. 139 Midge G-39-1
Folland Fo.139 Midge G-39-1, taxiing for take-off at Chilbolton, Follands flight test base. First flown at Boscombe Down on 11 August 1954, the Midge was used to demonstrate the feasibility of W.E.W. Petters design concept for a lightweight fighter. Despite having less than half the power of its Gnat stablemate the Midge could exceed Mach 1 in a dive. Pilots from several air forces flew the Midge and it was on a demonstration flight by a Swiss Air Force pilot that the Midge met its end on 26 September 1955, taking the unfortunate pilot with it. Date: circa 1955
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Media ID 21130873
© The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans
1954 1955 Boscombe Chilbolton Concept Demonstrate Demonstration Dive Flew Flown Folland Forces Gnat Half Lightweight Mach Midge Pilot Pilots Power Swiss Take Off Taking Taxiing Test Unfortunate Base
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This photograph showcases the Folland Fo.139 Midge, registration G-39-1, preparing for take-off at Chilbolton, Folland's flight test base. The Midge, first flown at Boscombe Down on August 11, 1954, was a groundbreaking aircraft designed to demonstrate the feasibility of W.E.W. Petters innovative concept for a lightweight fighter. Despite being powered by less than half the engines of its Gnat stablemate, the Midge astonishingly exceeded the speed of sound in a dive. The Midge's unique design attracted the attention of pilots from various air forces, who had the opportunity to fly this agile and impressive aircraft. However, tragedy struck on September 26, 1955, during a demonstration flight by a Swiss Air Force pilot. Sadly, both the Midge and the pilot met their end that day. This photograph, taken circa 1955, captures a significant moment in aviation history as the Midge taxis for take-off, ready to showcase its remarkable capabilities once more. The Folland Fo.139 Midge remains an intriguing chapter in the annals of aviation, a testament to the vision and determination of its designers and the pilots who flew it.
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