Russell Boardman intended to depart on a transatlantic flight with this aircraft in the weekend of 5 September 1930 but it was severely damaged when catching fire during refuelling at Boston on 4 September (not 2 September). NR761W was rebuilt at a cost of some $25,000 and flew all the way from New York to Istanbul non-stop in July 1931, no longer promoting the 1930 American Legion Convention in Boston. Photo by: Leslie Jones / Boston Public Library

Bellancas made amazing long-distance flights. Cape Cod flew 8066 km (5012 miles) non-stop from New York to Istanbul in July 1931, piloted by Russell Boardman and John Polando. Photo dated September 1930 by the source but the aircraft, then wearing 'The 1930 American Legion Convention' titles, was severely damaged by fire on 4 September 1930. Repairs cost of $25,000. Photo by: Leslie Jones / Boston Public Library