100 Year Anniversary of the Douglas World Cruiser’s First Flight Around the World

On September 22, the centennial of the Douglas World Cruisers’ return will be celebrated with Douglas Day in Santa Monica. The event, which aims to bring together 2,000 to 3,000 community members, will feature historical and futuristic transportation exhibits, art, musical performances, food trucks, and activities for children.

In 1924, Donald Douglas and his team from Santa Monica achieved a historic milestone with the first flight around the world. Operating from Clover Field, the U.S. Army Air Service’s Douglas World Cruisers—Seattle, Chicago, Boston, and New Orleans—completed a journey of over 27,553 miles, traversing oceans, continents, and difficult terrains. This remarkable feat showcased their courage and pioneering spirit, culminating in a grand return to Santa Monica in September 1924, where 250,000 people greeted them. The success of this mission cemented Donald Douglas and his company’s place in global innovation history.