The 212ft-span XB-19 was first flown on June 27, 1941. The 55min flight was made from Clover Field, Santa Monica with Maj Stanley M. Ulmstead at the controls. This photograph may well show the aircraft shortly after taking off for the first time.
... 310 m.p.h., a ceiling of 22,000ft. and a normal range of 7,500 miles.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Douglas XB-19 - СШАUSA - 1941

Lt-Col James Taylor and Maj Stanley Ulmstead chatting at Clover Field just before the latter carried out the first flight of the XB-15.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Douglas XB-19 - СШАUSA - 1941

Another view of the XB-19 taken a few weeks before the first flight. In addition to the pilot, Maj Stanley Ulmstead, a crew of seven was carried on the maiden flight.
For its great size, the lines of the fuselage of the leviathan bomber are comparatively slim.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Douglas XB-19 - СШАUSA - 1941

The repainted XB-19 pictured at Wright Field early in 1942 following acceptance by the Air Corps in October 1941.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Douglas XB-19 - СШАUSA - 1941

The Douglas XB-19 nearing completion at Clover Field early in 1941. The first flight was originally scheduled for May 17 but had to be postponed while problems with engine backfiring, propeller-pitch control and braking were resolved.
Several years of secret construction work were required to build the B-19 in the Douglas factory.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Douglas XB-19 - СШАUSA - 1941