A view of Howard Hughes' Hercules in Culver City, California.

A view of Howard Hughes' Hercules at Terminal Island, California.

A view of Howard Hughes' Hercules at Terminal Island, California.

A view of Howard Hughes' Hercules at Terminal Island, California.

Description given with photo: "Non-Stop Los Angeles - New York Flight Inaugurated New York -- Howard Hughes, pilot, and Joseph Bartles (right), relief pilot, at the controls of the TWA Constellation which inaugurated non-stop Los Angeles - New York flights when the ship landed at LaGuardia Airport Feb. 15. Hughes, famous flier and TWA executive, was at the controls during the flight made in 8 hours, 38 minutes. Many Hollywood luminaries made the first flight. Credit (ACME). 2-15-46."

Description given with photo: "Hughes In Good Humor As He Takes The Stand Again, Washington, D.C. - Howard Hughes, millionaire plane builder and movie maker, takes the witness stand this morning before the Senate committee which is investigating his wartime plane contracts. His huge seaplane has taken to the air in the interim between his first appearance in Washington and the current visit, a fact that might account for his undeniable good humor and broad smile. Photo by G.B. Kress. 11/10/47."