Survival and Performance in Aviation

In January 1966, a test flight of the SR-71 Blackbird faced disaster when the plane disintegrated at Mach 3. Pilot Bill Weaver survived a free-fall from the edge of space, but his co-pilot, Jim, did not. An investigation revealed that optimizing the plane's performance had compromised its stability, leading to the accident. Weaver's survival was confirmed when he made a collect call to the base, much to the relief of his colleagues.

What was the main issue faced by the SR-71 Blackbird during the test flight?

• Navigation system malfunction

• Engine failure

• Fuel leakage

• Loss of control at high speed

How did Bill Weaver initially perceive his situation after the plane disintegrated?

• He thought he was dreaming

• He was confident of survival

• He believed he was dead

• He was unaware of the incident

What was the outcome for Jim Zwayer after the incident?

• He was rescued by a helicopter

• He survived with minor injuries

• He did not survive the incident

• He was found unconscious but alive

What did the investigation reveal about the SR-71 Blackbird's performance optimization?

• It had no effect on the plane

• It improved the plane's stability

• It enhanced the plane's speed

• It made the plane less stable

How did Bill Weaver confirm his survival to his colleagues?

• Through a collect call

• Via a radio transmission

• By sending a letter

• By appearing at the base