How 'Fly Girls' sought to beat the fastest men in air races

In 1920s and 30s America, some 500,000 spectators came out to watch airplane races every weekend. Pilots earned tens of thousands of dollars for winning. They also crashed at up to 200 mph, right in front of fans. Men dominated the sport.

In 1920s and 30s America, some 500,000 spectators came out to watch airplane races every weekend. Pilots earned tens of thousands of dollars for winning. They also crashed at up to 200 mph, right in front of fans. Men dominated the sport. But a few women broke into it and fought to beat the fastest male pilots.

From this Episode:

Credits

Host:

Madeleine Brand

Producers:

Sarah Sweeney, Michell Eloy, Amy Ta, Christian Bordal, Quinn O'Toole, Yael Even Or