The first prototype was based on the Ryan M-2 mail plane, due to its robust and manoeuvrable design. However, all aspects of its construction were meticulously simplified with the sole objective of achieving a solo ultra-long-range flight.
This first version was named Ryan NYP (for New York-Paris).
Two fundamental premises were taken into account for the final aircraft design: maximum aerodynamic efficiency and absolute reliability.
And although a twin-engine configuration was considered for greater safety, the team finally opted for a single engine. Why? A single engine meant fewer parts that could fail.
But the biggest challenge of all remained. The real difficulty was fuel storage. So, in order to carry the amount of airplane fuel needed for such a long flight, the main tank was placed at the front of the aircraft, which added another handicap: it completely obstructed the pilot’s forward vision.
Finally, to overcome this impediment, a simple but effective periscope system was installed, using a series of mirrors to provide Lindbergh with forward vision.
Other weight-saving measures were also ruthlessly applied: the standard cockpit seat was replaced with a wicker chair, and even seemingly essential items such as the radio and parachute were omitted to save every precious pound.
The result? A single-engine aircraft measuring 8.4 metres long with a wingspan of 14 metres, capable of reaching speeds of 200 km/h and, most importantly, with an unrivalled operational range of 6,600 kilometres.
