RACING CHAMPIONS/ERTL

In 1930, Texaco took part in the ultimate promotional paradox for a fuel company, by sponsoring a trans-America glider flight. Captain Frank Hawks, an ex-air service pilot and holder of many early flying records, and superintendent of the Aviation Division of the Texas Co. (Texaco), piloted the aircraft, which was attached to a Waco 10 two-place bi-plane by 500 feet of cable.

The flight began March 30, 1930 from San Diego's Lindbergh Field, and culminated at New York's Van Cortland Park, after 36 hours and 47 minutes of flying, nine hours and 12 minutes of gliding and 19 stops. The Eaglet's fully enclosed cabin was the first of its kind, and was made at the insistence of Captain Hawks, in order to protect him from sun, wind and the slipstream of the tow plane. Hawks later said the sole purpose of the flight was to raise interest in gliding as an affordable and safe sport.

Info:   Eaglet Wings of Texaco" #10 in the series Special Edition Racing Champions & Ertl