SOME PROBLEMS OF HIGH-ALTITUDE IN THE 1930S - A WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT

During the 1930's, nations competed for aircraft records in height, speed, and distance. During 1936 and 1937, attempts on the high altitude record were made by a Bristol Type 138 A, built under the sponsorship of the British Air Ministry. Designers had to face problems in three main areas: airframe design, engine power at extreme altitude, and life support for the pilot. The problems were met by developing a lightweight wooden airframe with a double supercharged Pegasus engine. A full pressure suit was evolved for the pilot, based on the experience of protection of divers in high pressure situations. This was accomplished by Professor J.B. Haldane working with Siebe German Ltd. An altitude record of 49,967 ft was achieved by Sqd. Ldr. F.R.D. Swain on 28th September 1936. This was raised to 53,937 ft by Fit. Lt. M.J. Adam on 30th June 1937.