AEROPLANE FLIGHTS

Hokitika Guardian, 2 July 1930, Page 5

AEROPLANE FLIGHTS

CROSSING COOK STRAIT.

WELLINGTON, June 30.

Further (regulations .governing the crossing of Cook Strait by aircraft, HOW in operation, and an amendment to the notice to airmen issued a few months ago, dealing with this have now been issued by tne Director of Air Services.

“Machines proceeding along the West Coast of the North Island, not wishing to pass over or land at Rongotai, must circle over Paekakariki station until given the all-clear signal, a white cross placed on the ground at the centre of the north platform between the station, building and tue north signal box,” says the notice. “The signal does not mean that the weather ahead is favourable, but merely indicates that the passing of the aeroplane has been noted as proceeding to cross the Strait, or having crossed the Strait. Pilots will ensure tnat they advise point of departure as soon as they arrive at their destination.”

Under the previous regulations telephonic or telegraphic communication had to be made to Woodbourne Aerodrome at Blenheim for machines proceeding south and to Rongotai for those proceeding north, and arrival at these stations was to ‘be confirmed by the same medium. If pilots did not wish to land at either of these grounds, the fact was to be stated in the telegram, and the-.all-clear signal would be given from the aerodrome before they were permitted to continue their trip. While not affecting the rule regarding Woodbourne Aerodrome the new notice makes the visit to Rongotai optional instead of compulsory.