The NC-4 aircraft, a Curtiss NC flying boat, made its historic arrival in Lisbon, Portugal, marking the first successful transatlantic flight. This momentous journey commenced from Naval Air Station in Rockaway, New York, on May 8, 1919. Piloted by Lieutenant Commander Albert Read, the NC-4 was part of a U.S. Navy mission to demonstrate the feasibility of long-distance air travel following World War I. Accompanied by a crew of four brave aviators, the NC-4 made several stops along its route, including the Azores, a critical point for refueling and resting before crossing the turbulent Atlantic Ocean.

Arriving in Lisbon on May 27, the NC-4 flight was a significant achievement in aviation, showcasing not only the technical capabilities of the aircraft but also the tremendous resolve of the crew. As the aircraft touched down in the Tagus River, it was met with jubilant celebrations and a crowd of eager onlookers and dignitaries. The crew received official honors, and the flight was celebrated as a landmark in modern aviation. This successful aerial journey had implications that extended beyond mere exploration, as it significantly influenced military and commercial aviation's development in subsequent decades.

The NC-4's success also helped to spark interest in the potential of air transportation for international travel and commerce. In the years following, nations recognized the importance of establishing air routes and improving aircraft technology, paving the way for the commercial airlines that transformed global travel in the mid-20th century. The NC-4's journey remains a symbol of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of innovation in the face of challenges.