Replies

The first production A2D-1 performed its initial flight on 10 June 1953, with four more Skysharks delivered to the end of the year. Problems continued, with one of the A2D-1s crashing near Los Angeles on 5 August 1954. Some sources claim the rest of the batch of ten were completed, but they never actually flew. One of these machines still survives today -- at last notice, it was being refurbished for display by a warbirds restoration outfit in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

. Problems continued, with one of the A2D-1s crashing near Los Angeles on 5 August 1954. Some sources claim the rest of the batch of ten were completed, but they never actually flew. One of these machines still survives today -- at last notice, it was being refurbished for display by a warbirds restoration outfit in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

"Engine development problems delayed the first flight until 26 May 1950, made at Muroc by George Jansen. Allison failed to deliver a "production" engine until 1953, and while testing an XA2D with that engine, test pilot C. G. "Doc" Livingston pulled out of a dive and was surprised by a loud noise and pitch up. His windscreen was covered with oil and the chase pilot told Livingston that the propellers were gone. The gearbox had failed. Livingston successfully landed the airplane."

Lousy counter-rotating prop gearboxes...

A2D Skyshark on static display at Idaho Falls Regional Airport.