Chkalov’s Transpolar Flight to Vancouver

Chkalov was a Soviet Pilot who, when attempting to fly from Moscow to Oakland, had to emergency land at Pearson Airfield in 1937. During this month’s presentation, Columbia River High School student, Luke Hildreth, will be presenting the findings of his History Extended Essay, in which he explores the question, “How significant was Chkalov’s flight to Vancouver and what was its significance on politics, culture, and aviation in both the Soviet Union and America?”