The first prototype B-17 bomber was flown July 28, 1935. On the bomber there were four 1,200 horsepower Wright R-1820-97 engines and with a span of 103 feet 9 inches by 74 feet 9 inches held 11 to 13 machine guns and about a 9600 pound bomb load. These bombers could accommodate two pilots, a bombardier, a radio operator, and five gunman.