A Problem Solved.

Hokitika Guardian, 4 September 1920, Page 4

A Problem Solved.

It is stated from Paris that at last the problem of producing an aeroplane which is really a. helioeopter has been solved by M. Louis Damblanc, ,a French engineer 30 years of age. The helioeopter principle has been studied by every aeroplane designer with intense attention, for its solution and the principle of the system would provide an air weapon of superlative value to the first nation >vhich obtained it. The Damblanc aeroplane can rise vertically from the ground, and is able to hover in the air. It is the only machine, the inventor says, which has actually flown from a standing start. It is the only machine which has actually stood still at the pilot’s bidding during a flight., It is able not only to rise vertically but to descend vertically, nncl under complete control, and to land at the pilot’s discretion either on an hotel roof or a battleship’s deck. What does this mean? In the first place, it means that risk of life or limb is practically removed in the case of the aeroplane’s crew on starting or landing, also the men employed to send the machine off no longer run the risk of the propeller or machine injuring them. Also a largo area for the run along the ground, both when ascending and descending, will no longer be necessary—a .great saving of space and money. And the / risk of coming into contact with trees, V telegraph wires, and buildings when ascending or descending is practically eliminated. The first iffnehine completed by M. Damblanc has been undergoing its official trials at the army .aviation camp at Villacoubley, near Paris, and its performances led to great hopes that the helioeopter has at last been obtained.