1932: The Dornier DO X lands in Newfoundland:
A Community’s Extraordinary Effort

Story by Bill Zuk,
National Membership Secretary,
Canadian Aviation Historical Society
March 2025
Picture
© Wikimedia
The story of the world’s largest flying boat visiting Newfoundland was found at the Dildo, Newfoundland Outpost Heritage Museum (now closed). The Dornier DO X was a German-built flying boat, a symbol of cutting-edge aviation technology in the early 20th century. With a wingspan of 48 meters and powered by 12 engines, the massive flying boat was the world’s largest, heaviest and most powerful aircraft. It was designed to carry up to 100 passengers and demonstrate the potential of long-distance air travel.
 
After the First World War, the Treaty of Versailles severely restricted German aviation companies with Dornier setting up a Swiss subsidiary at Lake Constance where the DO X made its maiden flight on July 12, 1929. In order to create interest in the DO X, the flying boat was showcased in a series of transatlantic proving flights.
On 21 May 1932, the DO X was on a tour that had begun in New York with Captain Freidrich Christiansen intending to alight off the Narrows at St. John's, Newfoundland to refuel for the trip across the Atlantic. He was waylaid by unexpected fuel problems, adverse weather and mechanical issues to land in the sheltered Dildo Arm of Conception Bay, Newfoundland. The arrival of the DO X was a spectacle unlike anything the residents of the tiny outport of Dildo had ever seen. The gigantic flying boat, with its sleek design and towering presence, drew crowds of curious onlookers. But as the crew assessed their situation, it became clear that the aircraft needed fuel to continue its journey. This posed a significant challenge in a remote area like Dildo, where resources were scarce, and modern infrastructure was virtually nonexistent.
© Wendell Smith NL
In a time when Dildo had only one telephone and few automobiles, the community pooled their resources. Gasoline was not readily available in large quantities, as most households relied on kerosene lamps for lighting and wood or coal for heating. Undeterred by these limitations, the villagers sprang into action. They understood the importance of the DO X’s mission and the historic nature of its visit. In a remarkable display of community spirit, they began collecting whatever fuel they could find, including kerosene.
 
This patchwork of fuel, collected drop by drop, was a testament to the resourcefulness and generosity of the people of Dildo. Faced with a longer stay, the commander sent his officers to see Andrew and Violet Smith at the only home in the community with a telephone line. As they awaited directions, Violet gave the crew lunch. In thanks, the family was invited to tour the largest flying boat in the world.  
 
The crew of the DO X was deeply moved by the villagers’ efforts. They worked tirelessly to refine and prepare the collected fuel, ensuring it was suitable for the aircraft’s engines. After several days of repairs and preparations, the DO X was finally ready to take off. The entire community gathered to witness the historic moment as the massive flying boat roared to life, skimming across the water and soaring into the sky. The next stop was Holyrood where more fuel was available before the DO X set off for the Azores.
 
Despite its technological achievements, the Dornier DO X was fated never to achieve commercial success. Today, the story of the Dornier DO X and the villagers of Dildo and Holyrood is remembered as an example of what can be achieved when people come together. It is a reminder that even in the most remote corners of the world, acts of kindness and determination can have a profound impact. For the people of the tiny outport of Dildo, the arrival of the DO X was not just a moment in history - it was a moment that defined their community and exhibited their unwavering spirit.