The starboard wing of the Hercules makes the 28-mile journey from Culver City to Terminal Island. The port wing follows in the distance.

Ready to go. The immaculate bulk of the Hercules rides at anchor shortly before its one and only flight.

The mating of the wings and hull completed, the Hercules rests in dry dock awaiting attachment of tail surfaces and engines.

On November 1, 1947, the H-4 came out of the dock in readiness for taxying tests. Hughes is the right-hand figure just visible above the cockpit.

Star House Movers used a special cradle to transport the hull, and protected the wind-shield with a framework.