Escape of the Pacific Clipper
by George L. Flynn
Category: History

The Escape of Pan Am's Pacific Clipper on its maiden voyage is a true story of adventure and suspense. In 1941, the Pacific Clipper was a technological marvel and the finest commercial plane in the air. Not only did Japan and Germany seek the capture of such a desirable prize, but America's allies and friends looked for ways of laying claim to her. Trapped in New Zealand after the bombing of Pearl Harbour, with all their Pacific bases under attack or captured, the valiant crew of eleven men challenged the Imperial Japanese Navy, 30,000 miles of uncharted waters, and the German Luftwaffe to try for a safe landing in America. With courage and skill, the crew of the Pacific Clipper eluded the pursuing Japanese through Australia, Indonesia, Ceylon, and India. In Iran, the Germans took up the chase through Egypt, the Congo, and Brazil. After a final stop at Trinidad, the heroic crew brought the Clipper home to New York and the final showdown. Without arms, money or proper maintenance facilities, and under strict radio silence, they succeeded where most would have given up or failed. Their gripping tale and magnificent odyssey is captured by George Flynn and illustrated with maps, schematics, and technical data on this revolutionary mono-wing seaplane.