Vintage 1927 Chamberlin & Levine Transatlantic Flight Press Photograph – Bellanca Columbia

Clarence D. Chamberlin, one of America’s foremost early aviators, made history in June 1927 when he and Charles A. Levine (the wealthy aircraft manufacturer and adventurer who financed the trip) flew from Roosevelt Field, Long Island, to Eisleben, Germany, in a Wright-Bellanca monoplane named Columbia. Chamberlin was the first to carry a passenger across the Atlantic. Their 3,905-mile flight surpassed Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis distance record by nearly 300 miles, though Lindbergh had been first to make the crossing solo. Levine became the first transatlantic passenger, and the flight secured Chamberlin’s place among the leading aviators of the Golden Age of Flight.

Aircraft Identification
The aircraft pictured is the Bellanca Columbia, noted for its efficiency and long-distance range. Unlike Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, it carried a passenger in addition to the pilot. Distinctive features of the aircraft include its high-wing monoplane configuration and long, sleek fuselage built for endurance.

Photo Analysis
This press photograph shows Chamberlin and Levine in connection with their historic 1927 transatlantic flight. Such original period photographs are rare survivals from the late 1920s aviation boom, particularly ones documenting figures who rivaled Lindbergh in fame at the time. The condition appears to be strong with crisp detail, typical of press photography issued for newspapers.