Today in Aviation History: First Flight of the McDonnell FH Phantom

McDonnell FH-1 Phantom of Fighter Squadron 17A (VF-17A) "Phantom Fighters" in May 1948.

On January 26, 1945, the McDonnell FH Phantom made its first flight, marking a turning point in naval aviation history. The FH Phantom became the world’s first jet aircraft to successfully land on an aircraft carrier, proving that jet-powered fighters could operate at sea.

It also holds the distinction of being the first jet aircraft fielded by the U.S. Marine Corps. The Phantom’s success helped accelerate the transition from piston-engine fighters to turbojet aircraft in naval service and laid the foundation for future designs, including the McDonnell F2H Banshee.

On January 26, 1945—81 years ago—the McDonnell FH Phantom made its first flight, marking a major milestone in naval aviation. Developed near the end of the Second World War, the FH Phantom was a twin-engine, carrier-based fighter and became the first jet aircraft to land on an aircraft carrier successfully. It was also the first jet aircraft deployed by the United States Marine Corps.

The design originated after McDonnell Aircraft’s XP-67 Moonbat interceptor impressed the U.S. Navy, leading to a request for a shipboard jet fighter powered by Westinghouse turbojet engines. Three prototypes, designated XFD-1, were ordered in August 1943. The FH featured mid-mounted engines, a forward bubble canopy for excellent visibility, straight folding wings, and an aluminum monocoque structure.

Built for carrier operations, the FH Phantom used split flaps for low-speed handling and included provisions for rocket-assisted takeoff (RATO). Two Westinghouse J30 turbojet engines produced 1,600 pounds of thrust each, giving the aircraft a top speed of 505 mph, a service ceiling of 41,100 feet, and a range of 600 nautical miles. Armament consisted of four .50-caliber machine guns and up to eight 5-inch HVAR rockets.

Only 62 FH-1 Phantoms were produced, but the aircraft proved that jet fighters could operate effectively from aircraft carriers. Its success paved the way for the McDonnell F2H Banshee, which would see extensive service during the Korean War. Today, three FH-1s survive, including BuNo 111759 in the Smithsonian National Air, and Space Museum.