In 1927, among Polish emigrants in the USA, the ambitious idea of organizing a Polish transatlantic flight was born. It took two years for Stanley Adamkiewicz from Chicago to successfully organize this complex undertaking. He garnered support from Captain Adam Kowalczyk, a pilot of the 3rd Aviation Regiment, and Włodzimierz Klisza, a former PLL LOT pilot, essential figures for the project’s realization.
The Caproni Ca.87 ‘Polonia’ Takes Shape
Ultimately, the renowned Italian engineer Caproni personally provided the team with a Ca-73ter (Ca-82) night bomber. This aircraft served as the foundation for building the specialized transatlantic aircraft, the Ca-87. A crucial modification involved adapting the plane for potential water landings, a vital safety feature for such a daring journey.
Work on the Ca-87 progressed swiftly, with the aircraft declared ready by early May 1929. Its inaugural flight took place on June 15, 1929, marking a significant milestone. It was then that the aircraft received its fitting name, “Polonia,” symbolizing the Polish national effort behind the endeavor.
Attempt and Abandonment
The highly anticipated transatlantic flight was scheduled for July 4, 1929, coinciding with American Independence Day. To prepare, the “Polonia” was flown from the Italian airfield Medionali to Baldonnel airfield in Ireland, patiently awaiting favorable winds. The planned route aimed for the Canadian airfield Terranova, with the ultimate destination being Chicago.
However, the new Isotta Fraschini engines proved problematic, operating intermittently and causing concern. Immediately after takeoff, due to these persistent engine issues, the crew made the difficult decision to abandon the challenging journey. The aircraft was subsequently returned to the Italian manufacturer, where it was re-equipped and repurposed as a bomber.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Ca.87 |
| Wingspan, m | 25.00 |
| Length, m | 15.01 |
| Height, m | 5.60 |
| Wing area, m2 | 143.00 |
| Engine type | 4 Piston engine Issota Fraschini Asso |
| Power, hp | 4 x 265 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 180 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 146 |
| Practical range, km | 5000 |
| Service ceiling, m | 4000 |
| Crew, crew members | 2 |
Image gallery of the Caproni Ca.87 Polonia
