‘Round the World

The Planes. Four U. S. Army Douglas cruisers—heavier-than-air machines—left Santa Monica, Calif., to travel westward around the world. They expect to approach Los Angeles from the East on or before July 17. ‘Round-the-world has not been done before in any kind of flying machine.

During the oversea portions of the flight pontoons will be added to allow the planes to light on the water, if necessary. In Calcutta and London new engines will be installed.

The men who will fly around the world are commanded by Major Frederick L. Martin, the pilot of one plane.

The other three pilots:

Lieut. Lowell H. Smith

Lieut. Leigh Wade

Lieut. Eric Nelson

Their mechanics:

Reserve Lieut. John Harding, Jr.

Technical Sergeant Arthur H. Turner

Staff Sergeant Henry H. Ogden

Staff Sergeant Alva H. Harvey

The route is: Los Angeles, Seattle, Prince Rupert, (B. C), Sitka (Alaska), ……… Island of Attu, Kashiwabara Bay, Bettobu (Kuriles), Minato Japan (April 17) ………. Shanghai ………. Akyab (Burma), Calcutta (May 28) ………. Bagdad, San Stefnano, Bucharest, Belgrade, Vienna, Strassbourg, Paris, London ………. Kirwall (Orkney Islands) ………. Reykjavik (Iceland), Angmaksalik (Greenland) ………. Indian Harbor (Labrador) ………. Montreal, Keyport, N. J., Washington, Dayton, St. Joseph, Cheyenne, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles.

The longest “hop” will be from the Island of Attu, off the coast of Alaska, to Kashwabara Bay, 860 miles.

The start was preceded by an aerial “circus.” Every use to which the airplane has been put was demonstrated. Nine distinct types of machines showed their capabilities The completeness of the exhibition and the fact that no accidents occurred was considered as displaying the rapid progress which the science of aviation has made.

The Weather. Not all of the hazards of the flight are connected with the sea. There are trackless deserts, lofty mountains, intense cold, dangerous storm zones. Seamen and airmen agree that success or failure now hinges as much on the weather as on the planes or the men.

British Rivals. The British have mapped a similar undertaking in friendly rivalry with the U. S., thus enhancing sporting interest. Squadron leader A. S. MacLaren, who will pilot a Vickers-Vimy amphibian plane has set his departure for April 15, but may hop off on March 27. He will go West to East.