This stamp was issued to cover the rate for the new Trans-Pacific air
mail service to Hawaii, Guam, and Philippine Islands.

The stamp also was valid for use on other air mail matter.

Shown as the centerpiece of the design is a seaplane in flight over the ocean.

Flying boats were beginning to come into vogue, with the 1937 loss of the
Hindenburg airship essentially bringing to an end the use of that form of air
transport for transoceanic trips.

The flying boat itself did not remain in use for long.