Convair XF2Y Sea Dart

The Convair XF2Y was a jet-powered seaplane fighter first flown in 1953. Developed to overcome issues with operating supersonic aircraft from aircraft carriers, it utilised hydraulic skis instead of floats.

When its planned engine was late being developed, a lower powered unit was installed, resulting in the aircraft being underpowered. Unable to reach supersonic speed in level flight, it did manage to do so in a dive. The skis proved problematic, transferring too much vibration to the aircraft. A fatal accident on 4 November 1954 occurred when the Sea Dart disintegrated in mid air.

Two prototypes and three service test aircraft were built, although the last two were never flown. With the problems encountered with the XF2Y and issues with supersonic aircraft on aircraft carriers remedied, the project was cancelled, with the last flight in 1957.