FLYING BOATS

Hokitika Guardian, 17 September 1929, Page 1

FLYING BOATS

AN AUCKLAND COMPANY

AUCKLAND, Sept. 14

Two flying boats have been ordered by an Auckland company, and it is proposed to operate them between Auckland and various seaports on commercial lines.

Captain D. E. Harkness, D.S.C., stated this morning that the first machine was due to arrive shortly. It would be a Hornier Libelle, of 90 h.p., with a cruising speed of 70 knots, and fitted to carry a pilot and two passengers. The second machine was to follow, and it was possible that at a later date further machines woud be ordered. Captain Harkness said he was acting as technical adviser to the company, which had secured an option on the name “Aerial Services.” It was proposed to do aerial surveying and photographing, which had reached a high stage of development in other countries. The chief pilot would be Captain W. Man. Tho machine on the way would be the first all-metal craft imported into New Zealand. It was considered that there was a very wide field for this class of machine particularly in a province where there were many sheltered harbours.

Both Captain Harkness and Captain Man are well-known members of the Auckland Aero Club, and the latter with his experience of seven different types of seaplanes, and six types of flying boats, is a most capable pilot. He has a high opinion of the all-metal machine, such as has been recommended by Captain Harkness, as being the, most suitable machine available at present for the company’s activities. The company has had offers of assistance from other experienced naval air pilots.