PLIGHT OF AERO CLUBS

Chronicle (Levin), 25 June 1947, Page 2

PLIGHT OF AERO CLUBS

• Press Associatinn

By Telegraph-

WELLINGTON, June 24. Lack of Government aid to aero clubs in New Zealand is not only. retarding the progress of civilian flying, but is also threatening to force some of the weaker clubs out of existence. This was stated yesterday by oliicials of various clubs in the Wellington district. Civilian flying is considered to be outside the means of the average young man, it was stated, and, though clubs are' endeavouring to keep down their charges in spite of increased costs, the, fear has been expressed that they will turn into "rieh men's clubs". Negotiations with the Government for assistance and use of aero club facilities for the maintenance of a national reserve of pilots began last vear. but no deeision by the Government on any of the important issues involved has yet been announced. Aero clubs in New Zealand are operating 89 aircraft — 68 of them Tiger Moths, Auckland is the biggest club, with 12 machines. Of ' the clubs in the Wellington district, Wellington has live aircraft, but only two actually in operation. Wanganui has four, Hawke's Bay and East Coast five, Wairarapa and Ruahine three and Middle Distrigtjs (Palmerston North area) six. The New Zealand Aero Club — the parent body of all but four of the clubs — first asked for a Government subsidy in April of last year but, in spite of repeated representations, no definite deeision has yet been (announced.