Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Harvard 3126
- Type: Military Trainer Aircraft
- Year Built: 1941
- Builder: Noorduyn (under license from North American Aviation)
- Dimensions:
- Registered Tonnage:
- Location: Lake Erie, near RCAF Station Aylmer, Ontario
- Official Number: 3126
- Original Owners: Royal Canadian Air Force
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
Type: Harvard Mk. IIB
Manufacturer: Noorduyn (under license from North American Aviation)
Serial Number: 3126
Model: 07-93
Category: Military Trainer Aircraft
Service Entry Date: November 4, 1941
Final Date: August 23, 1943
Description
Harvard Mk. IIB serial number 3126 was assigned to No. 14 Service Flying Training School (SFTS) at RCAF Station Aylmer, Ontario. As part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP), the aircraft was used to train pilots for advanced military flying.
On July 23, 1943, the aircraft encountered difficulties during a training mission and crashed into Lake Erie. The incident led to the aircraft being abandoned. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, and the pilot(s) were likely able to escape before the aircraft was lost.
The aircraft was formally retired on August 23, 1943, marking its official removal from the RCAF inventory following the crash.
History
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS TO THE INCIDENT
While details of the crash are scarce, potential factors include:
- Mechanical Failure: Issues with the engine or flight controls, not uncommon during rigorous training.
- Pilot Error: The aircraft was used in advanced flight training, where trainees were exposed to challenging maneuvers.
- Environmental Conditions: Lake Erie’s proximity and weather patterns may have played a role.
Significant Incidents
CURRENT STATUS
- Fate: The aircraft remains abandoned and is presumed to be on the floor of Lake Erie.
- Wreck Location: Exact coordinates are not documented but may be discoverable through local historical research or underwater exploration.
Final Disposition
SIGNIFICANCE
This incident highlights the risks faced by aviators under the intense training programs of the BCATP during World War II. Harvard aircraft, such as Mk. IIB serial 3126, were essential in preparing Allied pilots for operational duty, and losses like this were considered an unfortunate but expected part of the training process.
Current Condition & Accessibility
CONCLUSION
The story of Harvard Mk. IIB (Serial 3126) represents the dedication and challenges of the BCATP. Despite its loss, the aircraft contributed to the rigorous training that equipped Allied pilots with the skills needed for World War II operations. Its remains, if located, would serve as a historical artifact and a tribute to the era of aviation training during the war.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”harvard-3126″ title=”References & Links”]
Legacy Notes & Full Historical Record
This section preserves the original unedited Shotline content for this wreck so that no historical detail is lost as we transition to the new logbook format.
IDENTIFICATION & GENERAL INFORMATION
- Type: Harvard Mk. IIB
- Manufacturer: Noorduyn (under license from North American Aviation)
- Serial Number: 3126
- Model: 07-93
- Category: Military Trainer Aircraft
- Service Entry Date: November 4, 1941
- Final Date: August 23, 1943
- Location: Lake Erie, near RCAF Station Aylmer, Ontario
HISTORY & INCIDENT DETAILS
Harvard Mk. IIB serial number 3126 was assigned to No. 14 Service Flying Training School (SFTS) at RCAF Station Aylmer, Ontario. As part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP), the aircraft was used to train pilots for advanced military flying.
On July 23, 1943, the aircraft encountered difficulties during a training mission and crashed into Lake Erie. The incident led to the aircraft being abandoned. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, and the pilot(s) were likely able to escape before the aircraft was lost.
The aircraft was formally retired on August 23, 1943, marking its official removal from the RCAF inventory following the crash.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS TO THE INCIDENT
While details of the crash are scarce, potential factors include:
- Mechanical Failure: Issues with the engine or flight controls, not uncommon during rigorous training.
- Pilot Error: The aircraft was used in advanced flight training, where trainees were exposed to challenging maneuvers.
- Environmental Conditions: Lake Erie’s proximity and weather patterns may have played a role.
CURRENT STATUS
- Fate: The aircraft remains abandoned and is presumed to be on the floor of Lake Erie.
- Wreck Location: Exact coordinates are not documented but may be discoverable through local historical research or underwater exploration.
SIGNIFICANCE
This incident highlights the risks faced by aviators under the intense training programs of the BCATP during World War II. Harvard aircraft, such as Mk. IIB serial 3126, were essential in preparing Allied pilots for operational duty, and losses like this were considered an unfortunate but expected part of the training process.
RESOURCES & LINKS
- RCAF Station Aylmer Archives: Potential source for further details on No. 14 SFTS and this incident.
- Canadian Aviation Museum: For additional historical context on the Harvard Mk. IIB and the BCATP.
- Lake Erie Diving Clubs: Wreckage from the crash may still exist and could be a point of interest for underwater archaeology or exploration.
CONCLUSION
The story of Harvard Mk. IIB (Serial 3126) represents the dedication and challenges of the BCATP. Despite its loss, the aircraft contributed to the rigorous training that equipped Allied pilots with the skills needed for World War II operations. Its remains, if located, would serve as a historical artifact and a tribute to the era of aviation training during the war.
harvard-3126 1943-07-23 07:48:00