Warbird Information Exchange

Cool old show - I am wondering how accurate it is as to the bail out sequence - did the bombardier/navigator really have to exit via a hatch only?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPGcOSvxv5Y

Tom P.

Video blocked at work, but egress route could indeed depend on the time frame and model of B-47. The B-47 went through a series of egress/ejection seat phases. Including:

Early models had nav ejecting downward, pilot and co-pilot upwards. Flail/shoulder injuries to the Nav were of concern, and obviosly not much use at low altitude. Hatch bailout may be preferred.

Alternate baleout via hatch (and bomb bay) always an option for all three crew members. Hatch was jettisoned.

Flail concerns and weight reduction programs led to all ejection seats being removed from earlier models like the B-47B. Not a popular move with crews. So hatch was primary bailout option, and a wind deflector was added in front of the hatch door. The video could have been taken during this period.

Later models (and upgrded early models) had all three ejection seats going up.

So could very well been the only option depending on the time frame and model the video shows.

Ok watched the episode, yep pretty neat for 1950's propoganda production. Never heard of the series- thanks for posting- I like cheesy aviation adventure shows. USAF counter to victory at sea perhaps.

Yes that could have been the only egress option during certain parts of the B-47 program before the three upward seats were standard.

In rivet counter mode I note the F-89 Scorpion scramble was likely from Hamiliton AFB in Novato CA. Very distinct tree line of oak trees and hills near the quick opening air defense shelters. Certainly not Alaska. Further note that the pilot of the F-89 appeared to be sitting in a F-102 or F-106 cockpit, early style, for the in flight scenes. Rivet counter mode off.