The Historic Flight of Ross and Keith Smith from London to Australia

A Groundbreaking Journey: The Smith Brothers’ Flight

Who Were Ross and Keith Smith?

Ross Smith and Keith Smith were Australian aviators born to push the boundaries of aviation. Ross, born in 1892, was previously a military pilot while Keith, born in 1897, was his younger brother. Together, they embarked on a remarkable adventure that changed aviation history.

The Inspiration Behind the Flight

The 1919 flight was inspired by a desire to promote the capabilities of air travel and the potential for connecting distant nations. This journey brought together the United Kingdom and Australia, showcasing the importance of aviation in a rapidly globalizing world.

The Epic 30-Day Voyage

The Start of the Journey

The Smith brothers began their historic flight on November 12, 1919, departing from Hendon in London. Flying a Vickers Vimy, a heavy bomber adapted for long-distance travel, they faced significant challenges, including harsh weather conditions and navigating through unfamiliar territories.

Challenges Along the Way

Throughout the month-long journey, the brothers encountered numerous obstacles, including mechanical failures and limited navigation equipment. Notably, they had to land in various cities, including Karachi and Calcutta, for repairs and refueling, ultimately taking them across multiple countries.

Aviation Milestones and Achievements

Reaching Australia: A Historic Arrival

On December 10, 1919, after an arduous journey of approximately 28,000 kilometers, Ross and Keith Smith finally reached their destination, landing in Adelaide, Australia. Their successful flight was heralded as a major achievement in aviation, solidifying their places in history.

Legacy of the Smith Brothers’ Flight

This remarkable expedition not only demonstrated the feasibility of long-distance air travel but also encouraged future aviators to explore and innovate. The Smith brothers received widespread acclaim, and their achievement inspired countless others to pursue aviation.

Fun Fact

Ross and Keith Smith’s Interesting Fact

Upon completing their flight, the Smith brothers were awarded the Daily Mail prize of £10,000 for being the first successful pilots to fly from London to Australia, an incredible sum at the time.