1919day.year
The NC-4 aircraft arrives in Lisbon after completing the first transatlantic flight.
The U.S. Navy's NC-4 seaplane arrives in Lisbon, completing the first transatlantic aerial crossing in history.
On May 27, 1919, the U.S. Navy's NC-4 flying boat landed in Lisbon after completing the first transatlantic flight. Departing from Rockaway Beach, New York, the aircraft made stops in Newfoundland and the Azores before reaching continental Europe. Piloted by Commander Albert C. Read and his multinational crew, the NC-4 covered over 3,300 miles in challenging weather conditions. This pioneering voyage demonstrated the potential of naval aviation and international air travel. The mission relied on support ships stationed along the route for navigation and rescue. Celebrated by dignitaries in Lisbon, the NC-4's achievement captured global attention and spurred rapid advances in long-distance flight. Its success laid the groundwork for future commercial and military aviation across oceans.
1919
NC-4
Lisbon
transatlantic flight
1958day.year
First flight of the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II.
The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, one of the Cold War's most iconic fighter jets, took flight for the first time. This event marked the beginning of a new era in military aviation.
On May 27, 1958, the F-4 Phantom II made its maiden flight from St. Louis, Missouri. Designed by McDonnell Douglas as a high-performance interceptor, the Phantom introduced innovative features including a powerful twin-engine configuration and advanced radar systems. It quickly gained popularity for its adaptability in air-to-air combat and ground-attack missions. Over its service life, over 5,000 aircraft were built for the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, as well as allied nations. The Phantom II set numerous speed and altitude records and saw extensive action during the Vietnam War. Its enduring design influenced multiple generations of fighter aircraft and solidified its legacy in aerospace history.
1958
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
1999day.year
Space Shuttle Discovery is launched on STS-96, the first shuttle mission to dock with the International Space Station.
Space Shuttle Discovery launched on mission STS-96 on May 27, 1999, becoming the first to dock with the International Space Station.
STS-96 marked a major milestone in human spaceflight as Discovery approached the partially constructed International Space Station (ISS). The mission’s objectives included delivering supplies, scientific equipment, and performing the first docking maneuvers with the ISS. Astronauts installed hardware on the station’s exterior and tested key life-support and communication systems. The successful rendezvous demonstrated the viability of future resupply and assembly missions. Discovery carried the Russian docking module and carried out a series of spacewalk rehearsals. This mission strengthened international cooperation in space exploration and paved the way for the ISS to become a continuously inhabited outpost.
1999
Space Shuttle Discovery
STS-96
International Space Station