The black and white view of Howard Hughes, surrounded by crowds, as he exited his Lockheed 14 aircraft at Floyd Bennett Airfield just after performing his final landing on his Around the World flight.
Press Release attached to photo: "HUGHES HERCULES READY FOR TESTS. LONG BEACH, CAL. An aerial view shows Howard Hughes' giant plywood seaplane Hercules ready for taxi tests at Long Beach. The initial flight of the plane, which cost $20,000,000 and will seat 700 persons, will not be attempted until early in 1947. ACME 10/13/46." Los Angeles Harbor, Terminal Island are now known as Long Beach.
Description given with photo: "Hughes Flying Boat - Port bow in dry dock at Terminal Island. Howard Hughes and Jack Jerman on platform in background. Long Beach, Cal."
Transcribed from attached press release: "Howard Hughes, on the flight deck of his flying boat, world's largest airplane, discusses with his flight engineer and radio operator, plans for tomorrow's taxi testing of the 400,000 pound craft. The flight deck occupies the upper level in the nose of the 219-foot hull, Nov 1, 1947."