People have tested this hypothesis often, and everyone but flat earthers sees the effects of the curve. A ship sailing toward us is first seen by the top of its mast. Then as it rounds the curve, the superstructure is visible. And finally the main hull of the vessel becomes visible. This was universally accepted as proof of the curvature of the earth before we had the ability to fly high enough to see first hand that the earth's surface is not flat. Universally accepted, except by flat earthers.

Rich, I have a pretty powerful spotting scope, and I can't see Hawaii or Japan, even from a mountain top.