On May 5, 1927, a new crew took to the skies in an attempt to conquer the Atlantic Ocean. Comte Pierre de Serre de Saint-Roman, Lieutenant de vaisseau Mouneyres, and mechanic Jules Petit departed from Saint-Louis, Senegal, aboard a twin-engine Farman Goliath. Their goal was to cross the South Atlantic, a feat that had already claimed many lives. This historical event, though tragic, holds valuable lessons for modern aviation professionals. For ATPL and ATC students, this story underscores the critical importance of pre-flight inspections and contingency planning. The crew encountered a serious technical issue during a stopover in Casablanca: a failed landing on water severely damaged the aircraft's floats. Forced to adapt a conventional landing gear, they significantly reduced their chances of survival in case of an emergency over the ocean. This decision, driven by determination but lacking proper risk assessment, ultimately led to their disappearance. The wreckage—only the wheels and a life raft—was later found near Belém, Brazil, confirming the fatal outcome. From an ATPL perspective, this case highlights the need for thorough aircraft systems knowledge and the ability to evaluate the impact of modifications on safety. The crew's choice to replace floats with wheels without considering the consequences for ditching procedures is a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures. For ATC students, the incident illustrates the challenges of coordinating search and rescue operations over vast oceanic areas, where communication and radar coverage are limited. In modern aviation, such risks are mitigated through rigorous certification processes, mandatory safety equipment, and international cooperation. Yet, the core principles remain unchanged: every flight requires meticulous planning, risk management, and respect for the aircraft's limitations. This historical tragedy serves as a timeless lesson for those training to become pilots or controllers, emphasizing that safety must never be compromised by ambition.