Ryan NYP Maiden Flight Climb-Out Over Dutch Flats (April 28, 1927)

Low-angle action photograph of the Spirit of St. Louis climbing into the overcast sky over Dutch Flats. — Ryan NYP Maiden Flight Climb-Out Over Dutch Flats (April 28, 1927) · Donald A. Hall Estate Collection

A dramatic action photograph recording the Spirit of St. Louis climbing rapidly into the cloudy sky during its first flight trials on April 28, 1927. Viewed from below as the aircraft banks away from Dutch Flats, the silhouette displays the 46-foot wingspan, streamlined struts, fixed landing gear, and empennage. Donald Hall monitored this initial 20-minute flight to verify initial rate of climb, control surface balance, and engine cooling.