Depicted here is a Sikorsky S-42B flying boat operated by Pan American Airways, photographed afloat with personnel visible on the upper fuselage during a refueling. The S-42 series formed a critical part of Pan Am’s early long-range expansion during the early 1930s, supporting overwater and international routes before the advent of larger four-engine types.

The aircraft shown carries U.S. registration NC16736, known during service as “Pan American Clipper III,” later renamed “Bermuda Clipper.” Its operational life ended in 1943, when the aircraft was destroyed in Manaus, Brazil, leaving period photographs as an important visual record of the type in service.

Rather than a staged promotional image, this photograph captures a working moment, with crew members positioned atop the fuselage. That candid context adds documentary value, illustrating day-to-day handling of Pan American’s early transoceanic flying boats.