In 1931, the Bellanca Aircraft Corporation constructed another long-range aircraft, designated the Bellanca Special J-300. This model was a modification of the CH-300 Peacemaker, featuring a large fuel tank installed in place of the passenger compartment. Its powerplant was upgraded to a 300-horsepower Wright Whirlwind engine, designed for extended flights.
Record-Breaking Flights and Renowned Journeys
The first aircraft, NR797W, named “Liberty,” was intended for a flight from Newfoundland to Copenhagen. Although the pilots could not reach Denmark, the machine successfully landed in Germany after 32 hours in the air. This marked an impressive early feat for the J-300.
In 1933, two Polish emigrants, Bolesław and Józef Adamowiczowie, purchased NR797W to fly to Poland. The aircraft was renamed “Warsaw.” After a second attempt, in June 1934, they successfully completed the flight from Newfoundland, via Normandy, to Warsaw. The LOPP company later acquired the J-300, and its registration was changed to SP-BPG.
Transcontinental Triumphs and Challenges
Another J-300, NR761W, known as “Cape Cod,” managed to complete a remarkable flight from New York to Istanbul. It covered 5,014 miles (8,069 km) in 49 hours and 19 minutes, demonstrating the aircraft’s exceptional long-range capabilities. This aircraft was later renamed “American Legion,” reflecting its significant achievement.
The third J-300, NR13137, named “Leonardo da Vinci” and piloted by Cesare Sabelli and George Pond, aimed to reach Italy. Despite their efforts, the journey concluded with a landing in Ireland, highlighting the challenging nature of these pioneering long-distance flights.
Legacy of the Bellanca J-300
These ambitious flights brought considerable fame to the Bellanca company, leading to further sales. They sold two more J-300s (NR782W and NR13199), as well as a J-3-500 “Santa Lucia.” The latter was custom-built for General Francesco de Pinedo, who planned an even more ambitious flight from the USA to Persia.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Bellanca J-300 |
| Wingspan, m | 14.42 |
| Length, m | 8.45 |
| Height, m | 3.57 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Wright Whirlwind |
| Power, hp | 1 x 300 |
| Crew, crew members | 2 |
Image and diagram gallery of the Bellanca J-300
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