Design and production progressed in tandem. As soon as Donald Hall completed the design for each component, the production crew swung into action to build it as quickly and efficiently as possible. The tubular steel frame that would support the entire structure was welded together and treated to prevent oxidation. The main forward fuel tank, one of five hand-built tanks, was designed to hold 210 gallons of fuel. Once installed through the top of the frame the unfinished wing was briefly fitted to the fuselage above the tank, confirming its correct fit. The Spirit’s initial test flight was scheduled for April 28, 1927. April 27 had been set aside to move the components from the manufacturing facility to the hangar at Dutch Flats 2.5 miles away, where final assembly would take place.
In the hangar at Dutch Flats the Spirit, at last, took form. With its sleek lines and gleaming silver paint, the Spirit of St. Louis was like no other plane in existence. Built and designed for a singular flight. It was more than an aircraft; it was a unique work of art. The next day’s test flight would reveal if the aircraft’s performance would match its beauty.
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