Maxie Anderson and Ben Abruzzo tried earlier but unsuccessfully to cross the Atlantic in a balloon called the Double Eagle.
They decided to fly the Atlantic in March of 1977. The Double Eagle lifted off from Marshfield, Massachusetts, on September 9, 1977 and set down in the sea off Iceland 65 hours and 30 minutes later. In many ways it was a successful flight in as much as the two men were able to confront and solve the logistical problems of a large exploratory adventure in only six months.

Both pilots have since lost their lives in separate accidents, and our Double Eagle sponsors are recognized it their memory and in honor of their accomplishments.