World Flight Centennial, 2 of 3 - Westbound and Down

Fighter Pilot Podcast

In this exciting follow up, Matt "Flounder" Arny continues the epic story of the 1924 World Flight, diving into the challenges and adventures faced after the final preparations. Guests Lance "Boil" Lewis, Mike Lockwood, and Rob Crotty return to discuss the harrowing flight through Alaska, including the tragic loss of the Seattle. They explore the Pacific crossing, touching on U.S. relations of the time with Japan and the newly-formed Soviet Union, and the critical role of maritime support from the Navy, US Coast Guard, and others.

Listeners will hear gripping tales of dodging sampans and junks in Asian harbors, changing an engine under a bridge, and a look at the UK’s participation and the unfortunate fate of the British team. The episode wraps up with liberty adventures in Shanghai and Bangkok.

Drawing from historical sources like First World Flight by Lowell Thomas, Around the World in 175 Days by Carroll Glines, and First Flight Around the World by Tim Grove, this episode captures the drama and international intrigue surrounding one of the greatest feats in aviation history.

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