I just came across an earlier one again. From the AUCKLAND STAR, 30 MARCH 1940

RIGGER RIDES ON ‘PLANE BAREBACK.

NOVEL FLIGHT.

Taken Aloft On Spitfire Fighter.

SITS ASTRIDE FUSELAGE.

British Official Wireless. (Received 12.30 p.m.) RUGBY. March 20.
A young aircraftsman, working as a rigger at an R.A.F. Fighter Command station, had the unique experience of “riding bareback” on a Spitfire machine, sitting astride the fuselage and facing tailwards.

The pilot, after taking off, was puzzled by the weight and the unresponsive behaviour of the tail of the aircraft, and made a circuit of the aerodrome. His passenger, gripping tight with his knees and arms, hung on grimly. Meanwhile, the ground staff, gravely anxious, summoned the medical officer and the emergency staff with equipment, including a fire engine. The pilot landed smoothly, the aircraftsman being none the worse.