Newport, R.I. – July 20, 1923
Updated January 9, 2016
On July 20, 1923, a plane belonging to the New York – Newport Air Line (Service) was making a flight from New York City to Newport, Rhode Island, with a pilot and two passengers aboard, when it crashed at Newport. The aircraft, named Fleet Wing, suddenly fell from an altitude of 75 feet while making a sharp turn in preparation for a water landing. The plane plunged into the water and flipped over, and all three men were ejected by the impact.
The most seriously injured was H. Cary Morgan, who suffered a compound fracture to his leg. He was transported to Newport Naval Hospital where it was determined that his leg was too badly mangled to be saved, and amputation was necessary. A pint-and-a-half of blood was donated by Pharmacists Mate 3C William J. Majeski of Meriden, Connecticut. Unfortunately, complications set in, and Mr. Morgan passed away.
The pilot, H.H. Thorburn, and the other passenger, Henry Fowler, survived the crash with minor injuries.
The terminal for the airline was close to the Newport Naval Station. When the accident occurred, help from the station arrived quickly. The heavily damaged plane was towed to shore by two navy boats.
The airline also had another plane in its fleet, the Gray Lark, which had arrived a few minutes before the accident.
Sources:
Woonsocket Call, “Newport Line Plane Upsets As It Lands”, July 21, 1923, Pg. 9
Woonsocket Call, “H. Cary Morgan Dead Following Accident”, July 24, 1923, Pg. 1
Meriden Morning Record, “Meriden Boy Gives His Blood In Vain”, July 30, 1923
New York Times, “Air Liner Crashes In Newport Landing”, July 21, 1923