George Fernic
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George Fernic, born Gheorghe Fernic on 5 August 1900, was a Romanian pilot, aircraft engineer, inventor, and amateur racing driver. His passion for flight took hold during the First World War, when a nearby military airfield sparked his interest. By 1916 he had earned his diploma as an aerial photo-observer and served with the 3rd Aeronautic Group's squadron through 1916–17. Fernic later tried his hand at the Indianapolis 500 in 1927, driving a Bugatti in a failed qualifying attempt, but he still got behind the wheel during the race as a relief driver for Fred Frame's Miller car #31, completing 182 laps and finishing just one lap behind winner George Souders.
Death
At a Chicago air show on August 29, 1930, George Fernic flew his own T.10 plane before 40,000 people. An exploding engine cylinder sent metal into him, causing a loss of power. His aircraft struck a parked plane, killing him. Romania later created the Virtutea Aeronautică Order and gave its first patent to Fernic after his death.
Did You Know?
- His FT-10 plane had a wingspan of exactly 7.62 m and a top speed of 136 km/h.
- The engine in his FT-10 was a 75 HP Michigan Rover.
- Romania awarded patent number 1 posthumously to Fernic after his death.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was George Fernic born?
George Fernic was born on 5 August 1900 in Galați, Western Moldavia, Romania.
When did George Fernic die?
George Fernic died on 29 August 1930 in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
More in 20th-century Romanian Inventors
Sources
Compiled from Wikipedia and the sources listed below. Text from Wikipedia is available under CC BY-SA 4.0; this entry is adapted from it.
- Wikipedia: George Fernic (CC BY-SA 4.0).
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