ZRS 4 First Flight (Silent)

Similar to the final footage in Goodyear’s ZRS-4 construction film, but with greater clarity, this silent reel covers the initial rollout and liftoff of the USS Akron. Quite the opposite of testing a new aircraft today, not only were high ranking guests piled aboard, but the public was encouraged to attend with cameras! Not mentioned in the piece was the discovery the elevator was overbalanced, making it very difficult to adjust the airship’s pitch. The elevatorman on the wheel had to be changed out every 15 minutes.