Charles Lindbergh

This Historic Flight That Challenged The Limitations Of Aviation New York To Paris, 20-21 May 1927

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In 1919, hotel owner Raymond Orteig, offered a $25,000 reward to the first aviator or aviators to fly from New York City to Paris, or vice-versa. He had been inspired by a speech given by flying ace Eddie Rickenbacker, discussing the friendship between America and France, at a dinner for the Aero Club of America.

The race was on and various attempts were made by different aviation teams, all of whom failed to complete the race. Funded by bankers in St Louis Missouri, Charles Lindbergh decided to attempt the transatlantic flight solo, to avoid inevitable fighting with a co-pilot, and forewent equipment that added weight to his plane, such as radios and a parachute. His success spurred on other pilots, with many aviation records broken during 1927.

PREPARING THE FUEL

Up bright and early for the biggest adventure of his life, Charles Lindbergh arrived at his hangar at Curtiss Field to watch his plane’s gas tank being pumped with fuel. He also listened out for the weather reports to determine whether it would be safe to conduct the flight. The reports all indicated fine, clear weather with very little wind.

TOWING THE PLANE