Incident Report: Aircraft Crash of CT-33 Silver Star (Serial No. 21457)

Identification & Site Information

  • Type of Incident: Aircraft Crash
  • Aircraft Type: CT-33 Silver Star (Serial No. 21457)
  • Pilot: F/O John William Sandford
  • Date of Incident: April 1956 (Specific date not provided)
  • Location: Unspecified, adverse weather conditions cited as a factor
  • Weather Conditions: Severe fog, leading to limited Visibility and high risk during landing attempts

Aircraft Description

The CT-33 Silver Star, commonly known as the “T-Bird,” was a jet trainer aircraft designed for pilot training and transition into jet-powered flight. It was a derivative of the Lockheed P-80/F-80 Shooting Star and was renowned for its utility, reliability, and widespread adoption by various air forces, including the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

Specifications:

  • Role: Trainer and Utility Jet Aircraft
  • Crew: Pilot and one instructor (or trainee)
  • Engine: Allison J33 turbojet
  • Operational Use: Advanced pilot training, reconnaissance, and secondary missions

History & Final Incident

On a routine training mission in April 1956, F/O John William Sandford encountered severe weather conditions that included dense fog. The challenging environment rendered visual navigation and landing nearly impossible. In an effort to ensure personal safety, F/O Sandford made the critical decision to bail out of the CT-33 aircraft.

While the ejection was successfully executed, tragedy struck when F/O Sandford drowned, unable to survive the aftermath of the bailout due to the adverse conditions and lack of immediate rescue options. The combination of limited Visibility, harsh weather, and the inherent dangers of an emergency bailout culminated in a fatal outcome.

Contributing Factors:

  • Severe fog limiting Visibility.
  • Hazardous weather preventing a safe landing.
  • Complications in post-bailout survival and rescue efforts.

Final Disposition

  • Aircraft: Written off as a Total Loss following the crash.
  • Pilot: F/O John William Sandford, tragically deceased.

The incident highlights the perils of military aviation in adverse weather conditions, underscoring the inherent risks undertaken by pilots in training and active service.

NOTMARs & Advisories

While there are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) associated with the crash site, the incident serves as an important reminder of the potential dangers posed by fog and other extreme weather phenomena to both aviation and rescue operations.

Located By & Date

The loss of the CT-33 Silver Star (Serial No. 21457) and F/O Sandford’s death were reported in the Saskatoon Star-Phoenix on April 4, 1956, providing the public with details about the tragic incident. Additionally, the RCAF Accident Card and Aviation Safety Network have preserved records of the crash for historical reference and analysis.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The wreckage of the CT-33 Silver Star was not explicitly detailed in reports, and its specific location remains unclear. Given the environmental challenges described, recovery efforts may have been hindered, and no additional information on subsequent salvage operations has been provided.

Resources & Links

  • Saskatoon Star-Phoenix (4 April 1956, p1): [Historical newspaper archive providing detailed reporting on the incident.]
  • RCAF Accident Card 2155684034571: [Official documentation maintained by the Royal Canadian Air Force.]
  • Aviation Safety Network Website: [Comprehensive database on aviation accidents worldwide.]

The CT-33 Silver Star (Serial No. 21457) piloted by Flying Officer John William Sandford crashed into Lake Ontario near Trenton, Ontario, in April 1956. F/O Sandford encountered severe fog conditions during a routine training mission, which made landing hazardous. He ejected from the aircraft but tragically drowned.

The CT-33 Silver Star was a jet trainer aircraft widely used by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) during the mid-20th century. It was known for its reliability and served as a primary trainer for many air forces worldwide.

F/O Sandford’s death is commemorated on Page 77 of the “In the Service of Canada (1947 – 2014)” Book of Remembrance.

The incident underscores the significant risks faced by military aviators, particularly during adverse weather conditions when the technology of the time offered limited support.

Analysis

The incident involving the CT-33 Silver Star (Serial No. 21457) highlights the critical challenges faced by military aviators operating under severe weather conditions. The technological limitations of the era, coupled with the unpredictability of weather phenomena, posed significant risks to training and operational flights.

The decision of F/O Sandford to bail out, though necessary under the circumstances, tragically resulted in his death, drawing attention to the dangers of post-ejection survival in adverse environments. This case underscores the importance of continued advancements in aviation safety, including:

  • Enhanced weather forecasting technology.
  • Improved survival gear and training for bailout scenarios.
  • Developments in emergency rescue protocols.

Legacy

The sacrifice of F/O John William Sandford serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and bravery exhibited by military pilots. His story contributes to the broader narrative of the challenges faced by aviators and the ongoing efforts to mitigate risks in military aviation.

Keywords:

#CT33SilverStar #MilitaryAviation #FOSandford #RCAF #AircraftCrash #FogConditions #1956AviationIncident