From the Howard Cannon Photograph Collection (PH-00192). Stamped on verso: "Official Air Force Photo." Stamped on verso: "Base Photographic Laboratory - Langley Air Force Base, Virginia." Briefings on the worldwide mission of the Tactical Air Command and a familiarization flight in the McDonnell F-110.
Transcribed from press release attached to back of photo: "NEW-DESIGN PHOTO PLANE COMPLETED CULVER CITY, Calif., July 7 -- test-flown today for the first time, the new XF-11 was revealed as one of the world's fastest long-range photographic planes. It was designed and built by Howard Hughes in conjunction with the Air Materiel command engineers. Army officials said that it can attain a speed of more than 400 miles per hour and a ceiling of more than 40,000 feet. The plane has a pressurized cabin making it unnecessary for the crew to use oxygen masks. Outstanding features include a full-span flap, unique eight-camera layout and exceptionally fast take-off." Transcribed from photo sleeve: "Howard Hughes sits in the cockpit of the XF-11, a reconnaissance plane that Hughes built and designed in conjunction with Air Materiel Command engineers. Hughes is preparing for his first test flight in Culver City, California July 7, 1947."
Billboard reading Welcome home, Howard!, dedicated to Howard Hughes in 1972, located on Desert Inn Road behind the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Landmark Hotel tower is seen behind the Convention Center dome.