Design
The United States Navy couldn't get funding from the United States Congress to build an aircraft carrier so they converted the fleet collier USS Jupiter (AC-3). The USS Langley was to be only used for developing carrier operations.
Flight Deck
The Langley's flight deck was made from wood on top of a beam and girder framework. The side under the flight deck did not have walls.
The flight deck was also flush without an island.
Based on British designs the Langley initially had longitudinal wires for landings. However, it was decided to add a backup system of transverse wires that had casings that had sand filled in them. Later a hydraulic system was developed and it was to be the standard of carriers going forward.
There were two 60' catapults.
Bridge
The bridge was located under the flight deck.
Funnels
The funnels were located on the port size and were hinged.
Hangar
Four of the holds were used to store aircraft. Maintenance was done on the flight deck.
A single elevator brought aircraft to the flight deck.