A Daredevil Decision
On August 10, 1912, Frank McClean made history by flying his Short S.33 biplane under London’s Tower Bridge. The Royal Navy aviator had been on a routine flight along the River Thames when he suddenly found himself in trouble. Running low on fuel and unable to gain altitude, he made a split-second decision to navigate through the famous landmark.
A Tight Squeeze
McClean guided his aircraft between the bridge’s two massive towers, passing beneath the upper walkway and above the lower road. He then flew under a second bridge, the London Bridge, before safely continuing his flight. Spectators along the river watched in shock as he maneuvered through the narrow gap, something never attempted before.
No Punishment, Just Applause
Despite the dangerous nature of his actions, McClean faced no punishment. At the time, aviation was still in its infancy, and regulations were not strictly enforced. His flight under Tower Bridge remains one of the most daring moments in early aviation history. The event was captured in reports and photographs, solidifying McClean’s place in aviation records.
On August 10, 1912, Frank McClean flew his Short S.33 biplane under Tower Bridge in London. Low on fuel and unable to climb, the Royal Navy aviator aimed for the narrow gap between the bridge’s towers. His daring flight left onlookers in shock along the River Thames.🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/NpQ5sTxVVm
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) February 18, 2025