Institut Géographique National

Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress

During the takeoff roll, after about 100 yards, a slight swing to the left developed, which the commander (who was the handling pilot) corrected by partially retarding the power on engines n°3 and 4, and by the use of rudder. Full power was then re-applied on all engines, but the aircraft started to swing to the right. The pilot throttled back engine n°1 and 2, together with the application of rudder, but these actions were not immediately effective. The aircraft did not resume a straight course until it was on the grass to the right of the runway. Knowing that the B17 had been operated from grass runways, the commander elected to continue with the take-off. However, after some 400-500 yards the aircraft swung further to the right, by which time the speed was 90-95 mph. The commander then became aware that the aircraft's path was obstructed by a tree and a pile of gravel. The left wing tip struck the tree and the n°4 propeller struck the gravel. The aircraft yawed to the right, crossed a hollow in the ground and landed in a cornfield beyond. The fuselage broke in two and a fire erupted. All 10 occupants were rescued, among them five were injured, two seriously. The aircraft was totally destroyed by fire.

Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress

Crashed in unknown circumstances. There were no casualties.

Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress

En route, the crew encountered poor weather conditions with turbulences. The aircraft went out of control, dove into the ground and crashed in an open field. All five crew members were killed. It was reported that the pilot may have lost the control of the aircraft when the cargo shifted while flying in severe turbulences.

SNCAC NC.701/702 Martinet

While approaching Saint Etienne, an engine failed. The pilot attempted to make an emergency landing but the aircraft stalled and crashed in a prairie. All six occupants were killed. Crew: Robert Millet, pilot, Pierre-Claude Belmont, mechanic, Alain Le Bras, radio navigator, Roger Panenc, radio navigator. Passengers: Casimir Corniglion, photographer, André Lesure, chief of Photography by IGN.

SNCAC NC.701/702 Martinet

Crashed in unknown circumstances. Crew fate unknown.