NEW CONTROL SYSTEM

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 149, 20 March 1939, Page 10

NEW CONTROL SYSTEM

Aircraft Using Rongotai Aerodrome INTERNATIONAL RULES TO BE OBSERVED A system of control which is recognized internationally by aircraft taking off and landing at busy aerodromes will be introduced at Rongotai today. During the hours when close supervision is necessary control will be exercised from a 50ft. tower_ erected near the main hangar, and pilots will be signalled by Aldis lights. All aircraft using Rongotai, including machines ot the oyal New Zealud Air Force, commercial airliners and aero club planes will be required to observe the new regulations and follow the directions of the officer in the control tower. Rongotai is now the busiest aerodrome in New Zealand, and the density of traffic has increased to such an extent that the control system is stated to be absolutely necessary. Rongotai will also be the first aerodrome in New Zealand to adopt this system. As from today no pilot will be permitted to land or take off except in accordance with signals and directions. At certain times of the day, however, when there is little dying, or when conditions are considered otherwise fully satisfactory, signals will be hoisted to show that the system of individual control is not in operation. An aeroplane taking off from Rongotai under the new system must wait at the end of the runway.till a white light signals that the machine may take the air. A red light will signify that the machine must remain stationary. Lights may be flashing or steady according to the code arranged. Aircraft landing at Rongotai must make a circuit or partial circuit before coining in, unless advised by radio to land direct. While making this circuit the aircraft will be signalled from the control tower aud will land or remain in the air according to the instructions received.