Incident Involving Ejection Seat Malfunction During Flight Test with Yeager

In December 1963, legendary test pilot Chuck Yeager experienced a harrowing accident during a test flight of the NF-104, a rocket-powered aircraft designed for high-altitude research. After successfully climbing to a near-record altitude, Yeager encountered a critical failure when the plane's controls became ineffective, leading to a dangerous flat spin. Despite his extensive experience, Yeager was unable to regain control, and the aircraft descended rapidly, losing approximately 95,000 feet in altitude. In a desperate bid for survival, he ejected from the aircraft. Unfortunately, the ejection was fraught with peril; while the seat straps released as intended, the seat base struck Yeager with significant force. The still-active rocket motor broke the plastic faceplate of his helmet, igniting his emergency oxygen supply and resulting in severe burns to his face. The injuries required extensive medical treatment and marked the end of Yeager's attempts to set further test-flying records. This incident not only highlighted the risks associated with high-altitude flight testing but also underscored Yeager's resilience and dedication to aviation.