Ep 1. America's First Jet Fighter

Planes That Never Flew season 1 episode 1 takes us back in time to witness the creation of America's first jet fighter. This first episode of the show is titled America's First Jet Fighter, an appropriate name as the episode is dedicated entirely to the development of this distinguished machine.

The episode begins by looking at the American Air Force's eagerness to match the advancements of its European counterparts in the jet fighter arena. The United States entered the second world war somewhat late and so had not yet developed their jet technology. With the war now over, many American engineers and designers were able to focus on developing a fighter jet that could take on establishment aircraft in Europe that had already adopted jet technology.

The Bell Aircraft Corporation was selected to build the country's first fighter jet, which was named the XP-59A. The idea behind the jet was to create an aircraft that would outperform any plane used by the enemy, using firepower, speed, and agility. Engineers employed by the Bell Aircraft Corporation spent months designing and crafting every aspect of the XP-59A.

To ensure the fighter jet was up to standards, it had to go through rigorous testing. The episode dives deep into the various challenges faced throughout the testing phase, from the testing of the engine, to the wings, the tail, and the cockpit. America's First Jet Fighter leaves no stone unturned in its quest to showcase every minute detail of the development and testing process carried out by the engineers and designers of Bell Aircraft Corporation.

Viewers get to meet many of the people involved in designing and building the XP-59A. The show features interviews with mechanics, engineers, pilots, and other key individuals who ensured the success of the project. These interviews provide viewers with an insight into the complexity of developing an entirely new type of aircraft.

As the XP-59A nears completion, the episode takes us to Muroc, California, where the Jet Age was to take root, for the jet's first test flight. The plane's performance was scrutinized by experts, with everyone waiting with bated breath for the results of the test. For the engineers involved in the design of the XP-59A, this was their moment of triumph or disappointment. The plane finally took off, and the test flight proved successful.

The XP-59A may not have seen action during the second world war, but it was the first step in creating a dynasty of military jets that the American Air Force would rely on for years to come. The plane's innovative technology and sleek design were a game-changer in the world of aviation, and the episode highlights how it paved the way for future advancements in fighter jet technology.

In summary, Planes That Never Flew season 1 episode 1, America's First Jet Fighter, is an intriguing and eye-opening insight into the development of America's first-ever fighter jet. The show provides viewers with an exceptional journey through the complex process of building this machine, highlighting the key figures involved in the design, development, and testing of the plane. With superb imagery, interviews with experts and insiders, and gripping storytelling, Planes That Never Flew season 1 episode 1 is a must-watch for aviation enthusiasts and those who want to learn more about America's quest for dominance in the world of fighter jets.