1931 Hungarian Transatlantic Aviators with Financial Backer – Alexander Magyar & George Endresz

This original 1931 International Newsreel press photograph captures a rare moment in aviation history — Hungarian aviators Alexander Magyar (navigator) and George Endresz (pilot) with their financial backer, Emil Szalay, shortly after completing a record-setting transatlantic flight. Their aircraft, Justice for Hungary, is visible in the background, its sleek fuselage a testament to early long-distance aviation ambition.

The pair made their daring crossing from Harbor Grace, Newfoundland, to Bicske, Hungary, covering nearly the entire distance to Budapest before being forced to land just 20 miles short due to empty fuel tanks. The journey lasted an astonishing 26 hours and 7 minutes, marking one of the era’s notable long-distance flights. Szalay, a wealthy sausage manufacturer from Flint, Michigan, had financed the mission and awaited them in Budapest for a hero’s welcome.

This photograph, complete with its original typed press caption on reverse, offers a vivid glimpse into the Golden Age of flight, capturing the blend of technological innovation, daring, and national pride that defined aviation’s formative years. A must-have for collectors of aviation history, transatlantic flight memorabilia, or Hungarian cultural heritage.

Date: July 16, 1931
Dimensions: Approx. 8" x 10"
Condition: Very good with light handling wear; press caption intact on reverse.
Provenance: International News Photos archive.