Nikolay Blagin Soviet test pilot Date of Birth: 07.10.1896

1. Childhood and Education
2. Military Service and Flight Training
3. Test Pilot at TsAGI
4. The Catastrophe of the ANT-20
5. Blagin's Accusation and Rehabilitation
6. Posthumous Legacy

Childhood and Education

Petr Anisimovich Blagin was born in Vitebsk, Russia, to a military topographer. He received a prestigious education at a gymnasium and later a cadet school.

Military Service and Flight Training

Blagin joined the Red Army in 1918 and transitioned to flight training in 1920. He served in various flight schools and units.

Test Pilot at TsAGI

In 1932, Blagin became a test pilot at the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI). He flew a wide range of aircraft, including the ANT-29, BICH-7A, I-5, and ANT-40. He also tested jet boosters for the TB-1 and I-4.

The Catastrophe of the ANT-20

On May 18, 1935, Blagin escorted the ANT-20 "Maxim Gorky" during a demonstration flight. The passenger plane piloted by N.S. Zhurov and I.V. Mikheev was accompanied by Blagin in an I-5 fighter. During the flight, Blagin attempted a maneuver close to the ANT-20, causing a collision that resulted in the crash of both aircraft. All 59 people on board perished.

Blagin's Accusation and Rehabilitation

Blagin was initially held responsible for the catastrophe by some, including fellow aviator Mikhail Gromov. However, an investigation by the NKVD revealed that Blagin was forced to perform the reckless maneuver due to pressure from officials at a film studio who wanted footage for propaganda purposes. In 2010, Blagin was exonerated based on this evidence.

Posthumous Legacy

Despite not being at fault for the accident, Blagin's memory was tarnished for decades. However, his family received support and pensions, and he was buried with other victims of the crash at Novodevichy Cemetery. The film studio personnel responsible were punished.