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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aero-lindbergh-pilot-and-navigator

On his 1927 solo flight to Paris, why did Lindbergh fly as both pilot and navigator?

To save weight for extra fuel.

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  1. To save weight for extra fuel ✔
  2. No one else wanted to go
  3. The rules banned passengers

Why: The trip from New York to Paris was about 3,610 miles. Every pound mattered, so Lindbergh went alone and filled the space with fuel. The flight took about 33 and a half hours and won a $25,000 prize.

Huh, didn't know that: His plane, the Spirit of St. Louis, was named for the St. Louis supporters who paid for it.

The dad joke
Why did Lindbergh fly alone? He didn't want anyone to steal his snacks.
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References

Answer: To save weight for extra fuel. The trip from New York to Paris was about 3,610 miles. Every pound mattered, so Lindbergh went alone and filled the space with fuel. The flight took about 33 and a half hours and won a $25,000 prize.

  1. NASA Glenn: Spirit of St. Louis History www.grc.nasa.gov/www/k-12/aerosim/LessonHS97/SpiritofStLouis.html
    In order to carry enough fuel for the 5810 kilometer (3610 mile) trip, Lindbergh flew as both pilot and navigator.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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