Yeager sets new speed record at Mach 2.44

On December 12, 1953, aviation pioneer Chuck Yeager achieved a remarkable milestone in the history of flight by setting a new speed record of Mach 2.44 in the Bell X-1A aircraft. This groundbreaking achievement was part of a series of test flights known as 'Operation NACA Weep,' which aimed to surpass the previous record held by Scott Crossfield in the Douglas D-558-II Skyrocket. During the flight, Yeager encountered a significant challenge when he lost control of the X-1A at approximately 80,000 feet due to inertia coupling. Demonstrating exceptional skill and composure, he successfully regained control of the aircraft at around 29,000 feet and landed safely without further incident. For his extraordinary accomplishment and contributions to aeronautics, Yeager was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal in 1954. This flight not only marked a significant advancement in supersonic flight but also solidified Yeager's legacy as one of the foremost test pilots of his time.