Nordmeer on the Heinkel catapult. The photo gives a good view of the inverted gull wing of the Ha 139 and a good idea of its relatively small size. Its heavy Jumo diesel engines penalized performance and only 500 kg of mail could be carried. Photo by: Rudy Arnold / Smithsonian Instiution

The prototype of the Ha 139 is launched from Schwabenland, one of several catapult ships operated by Lufthansa for its transatlantic airmail service. These vessels did not refuel seaplanes in mid-ocean, but were stationed in ports in Gambia and Brazil to provide assisted take-offs. In 1937-1938 two ships were based in Horta, Azores, and in Port Washington, New York City, to support a fast trial service across the North Atlantic. Almost the same photograph was made by Rudy Arnold, proving this is off City Island, New York. Photo from: Nationaal Archief (Netherlands)