Douglas DC-1 (1933): It was the challenge of the Boeing Model 247 that pushed Douglas Aircraft into the passenger airplane business. The DC-1 was designed as a series prototype for TWA to compete against the Model 247 ordered by United Air Lines. The DC-1 made its first flight on July 1, 1933, and exceeded all of TWA’s specifications. It set a new standard for speed, comfort and safety. In 1935 it set a new coast-to-coast record of 11 hours and 5 minutes. Variable-pitch propellers provided remarkable takeoff and landing characteristics. The plane was even equipped with a small galley and lavatory. Only one DC-1 was built.