B.A.C. l-ll

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30975, 3 February 1966, Page 12

B.A.C. l-ll

Sir, —Perhaps “Observer” could tell us why the N.A.C. experts advised the buying of second-hand Friendships from Air Lingus. These, the experts admit, have to be reconditioned before being put into service, and this work will take several months. Air Lingus have replaced with B.A.C. 1-11’s. We do not need a volume such as the experts handed to the Minister, but we have a right to know the story without the eye-wash. “Observer” is certain that Britain will join the E.C.M. Perhaps he was pleased when Ireland obtained free entry into Britain for all her farm produce recently. It could grow into a nice large export business, like the horse-breed-ing did years ago. However, they are satisfied with the BA.C. 1-11 and in one instance, within an hour of its delivery, the machine was on its way to Rome with the Irish delegation to the Ecumenical Council.—Yours, etc,, TRIDENT. February 1, 1966.

Sir, —I see that Mr D. J. Lambert, of B.A.C. says that the. B.A.C. 1-11 is a “RollsRoyce at a Cadillac price.” The other day, while attending the Mangere air pageant, I heard the announcer say that flying a B.A.C. l-11, according to pilots, is like driving a Cadillac. This was re-

peated in local newspapers that evening. It would help the N.A.C. selection committee if it could be clearly stated what sort of car this airliner is supposed to be. Perhaps it is really a replacement for the Model T Ford?—Yours, ONE - DOUBLE - ONE - ELEVEN - ELEVEN. Auckland, February 1, 1966.

Sir, —Your leader on consideration of the B.A.C. 1-11 in relation to our over-all economy was to be commended, notwithstanding the remarks by “Observer” in Tuesday’s columns. To date there has been little adverse criticism of the 1-11 made either of its actual airline operation or of its performance while flying in New Zealand. The early delivery dates offered of a proven aircraft could well cause N.A.C. to reconsider, in the light of their heavily over-committed passenger capacity. The 1-11 could provide the stimulus to tourism in its initial stages of development by offering advanced standards of speed and comfort, with Air New Zealand, our rapidly expanding overseas airline. At the same time the purchase of a British aircraft would ensure a smooth passage for our trade agreements, due for renewal. Yours, etc,, COMMON (WEALTH) MARKET. February 1, 1966.