The competition is launched. The government will offer 20 contos to whoever completes the crossing, with the aim of celebrating the centenary of Brazil's independence. "Anyone can participate, anyone can win." But the dispute between officers becomes heated, and the government ends up deciding in favor of the Navy commander, Sacadura Cabral.

April 5, 1922, Atlantic Ocean. Despite having completed the second stage of the crossing, having reached Cape Verde, they are trapped on the island. With strong winds and problems with the floats, they only have enough gasoline for a 12-hour direct flight, and are unable to reach Fernando de Noronha.