A 63-hour flight from Moscow to Vancouver, Washington, in 1937 established Valery Chkalov as a critical figure in early polar aviation. Covering 8,811 kilometres in a Tupolev ANT-25, he pioneered the northern route between Europe and the American Pacific Coast. This feat defined his career as a Soviet test pilot and national hero before his untimely death.
Early Career and Training
Born in 1904 in the Volga town of Vasilyevo, Chkalov began his working life as an apprentice in a local shipyard and later served as a stoker on a river dredger. After seeing his first aircraft in 1919, he enlisted in the Red Army air force. His formal training took place at the Yegoryevsk Training School, followed by studies at the Orenburg Military Aviation Piloting High School and the Borisoglebsk Higher Aviators School. By 1924, he was serving in a fighter squadron.
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During the early 1930s, Chkalov transitioned into the role of a test pilot. His technical prowess allowed him to perform complex aerial maneuvers, including 250 loop-the-loops within a 45-minute window. In 1935, he took command of the Soviet air force's stunt section, leading public displays that brought him to the attention of high-ranking officials. His contributions were recognized with the Order of Lenin in 1935 and 1936, as well as the title Hero of the Soviet Union in 1936.
Final Flight and Death
Chkalov died on 15 December 1938 while conducting the maiden test flight of the Polikarpov I-180 prototype. Although flight plans restricted his altitude to 600 metres, he climbed beyond 2,000 metres during the circuit. Following an engine failure, he attempted to maneuver the craft to safety but struck a powerline. He sustained fatal injuries during the crash. His ashes are interred in the Kremlin Wall Necropolis.
Fast facts
- Born: 1904, Chkalovsk
- Died: 1938, Moscow
- Rank: Kombrig
- Primary aircraft: Tupolev ANT-25, Polikarpov I-180
- Awards: Hero of the Soviet Union (1936)
- Positions: Deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the Soviet Union
Questions readers ask
What caused the crash that killed Valery Chkalov?
The engine failed, with theories ranging from freezing temperatures due to open cowl flaps to improper throttle management by the pilot.
Was Chkalov solely a pilot?
No, he also served as a politician, holding the position of deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the Soviet Union.
Achievements
- Educated at Borisoglebsk Higher Aviators School and Orenburg Military Aviation Piloting High School
- Worked as aircraft pilot, test pilot and politician
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