For the competition itself, only the S.6Bs and S.6As were intended to participate. The British plan for the Schneider contest was to have "S1595" fly the course alone and, if its speed was not high enough, or the aircraft encountered mechanical failure, then the more-proven S.6A "N248" would fly the course. If both "S1595" and "N248" failed in their attempts, then "N247", which was planned to be held in reserve, would be used. The S.6B "S1596" was then to attempt the world air speed record. During practice, "N247" was destroyed in a takeoff accident, resulting in the death of the pilot, Lieut. G. L. Brinton, R.N., precluding any other plans with only the two S.6Bs and the sole surviving S.6A prepared to conduct the final Schneider run.