Introduction

Lockheed Electra L-10E

The funding finally came through and we've purchased a Lockheed Electra L-10E. In this plane, I hope to be the first person to circumnavigate the world around the equator. It's an ambitious plan, but it can be done with the wonderful crew I've assembled. Captain Harry Manning, Fred Noonan, and Paul Mantz have all signed on for this historic site. Noonan and Mantz will handle navigation on the flight. March 17th, we plan to leave Oakland, California to begin our journey.

Joined Perdue's Faculty

I joined Perdue University's faculty this week. Being on staff will help with funding for a new plane, one that will be able to handle a flight around the world. I have been hired as a consultant to the Department of Aeronautics.

More Notable Flights in '35

This year I've flown solo from Hawaii to Oakland, California. Then I flew from L.A. to Mexico City and a short time later flew from Mexico City to New York City. I've also set some speed records this year. I am very pleased with these accomplishments, but see them as a stepping stone to my ultimate goal--flying around the world. I will need a lot of funding and a new plane if I'm going to reach my goal.

First Trans-Atlantic Flight!

Today I became the first woman to make a solo, trans-Atlantic flight. Immediately after take off, I ran into thick clouds and ice was forming on the wings. Not an easy start to a long flight. The bad weather continued and my plane started having mechanical problems. I realized I wasn't going to make it to Paris as planned. I was so happy when the fog broke and I could see the coast of Ireland. I landed in an open field and was greeted by a farmer tending his cattle. I hope I will be the first of many women pilots who will make this journey.