The feat of Plus Ultra, the plane that crossed the Atlantic, and the sad fate of its crew: “It was the only original that survived”
The article commemorates the centenary of the Plus Ultra's arrival in Buenos Aires, highlighting its significance in aviation history and the emotional impact on its crew's legacy.
The article remembers the historic flight of the Plus Ultra, a silver-gray seaplane that completed the first transatlantic crossing from Spain to Argentina solely by a single aircraft. On February 10, 1926, after a grueling 19-day journey, the plane approached the shores of the Río de la Plata with a multitude eagerly awaiting its arrival in Buenos Aires. This event captivated the city and marked a turning point in aviation history, serving as a symbol of progress and a pioneering achievement in connecting two continents by air.
The Plus Ultra was an emblematic flight of the early 20th century, occurring in a time when aviation was just emerging in the post-World War I era. The journey not only demonstrated the technical advancements in aviation but also represented a spirit of adventure and exploration that characterized that period. Captain Juan José Membrana, president of the Aeronaval Institute, reminisces about the monumental occasion, underscoring its significance in Argentina's historical and cultural narrative. The legacy of Plus Ultra continues to resonate, showing how pioneering flights shaped the future of global connectivity.
Additionally, the article reflects on the tragic fate of the aircraft's crew, emphasizing that despite the plane's incredible achievement, the journey came with a heavy emotional toll. The memory of these early aviators and their story of bravery has lingered in Argentina for a century, illustrating the complex interplay between triumph and tragedy in aviation history. The Plus Ultra serves not only as an aeronautical hallmark but also as a reminder of those who risked their lives for the sake of exploration and innovation.