Pawtucket, Rhode Island – December 5, 1920

     On December 5, 1920, a lone pilot flew a Challenger bi-plane from Seekonk, Massachusetts, to What Cheer Airport in Pawtucket.  Upon landing, he parked the aircraft but left the motor running as he climbed out of the cockpit. The unattended plane then suddenly took off on its own down the runway with the pilot in foot pursuit.  Fortunately the wind was blowing from the back of the plane and the plane stayed on the ground.  The plane continued on until it left the tarmac and crashed into a fence and snowbank.  There were no injuries.    

     Source:

     Providence Journal, “Mischievous Plane Starts Solo Flight As Pilot Steps Out, Leaves Motor On”, December 6, 1920, pg. 2.