CHICHESTER’S FLIGHT

Hokitika Guardian, 31 March 1931, Page 3

CHICHESTER’S FLIGHT

REPAIRS TO PLANE. (Australian Press Association.) NORFOLK ISLAND, March 30. Chichester is uiicommuiicaiive and the following authentic details are supplied by the representative of the Vacuum Oil Company and the lirst notification of the flight was received here was at 1.30 p.m., on Saturday. Arrangements for the landing were immediately made at the Cascades. At 4.40 p.in. Chichester made a perfect landing. He was met on arrival by Mr Martin, acting for the \ aouuin Oil Company and Mr Leonard, Representative of the Administrator. Congratulations upon his .successful flight, were conveyed by Mr Leonard. After the reception Chichester returned aboard the piane for refuelling, which was successfully completed before dusk.

J lie Cascades have an open roadstead and fortunately the sea was smooth. The plane was moored lor the night. On Sunday morning at 7 o’clock Chichester loft his moorings after two attempts the plane failed to rise. He then taxied to Duncombe Bay on the north western side of the island, unsuccessfully seeking for smoother water. Returning half an hour later and refuelling, he made a further unsuccessful attempt. Us failure was owing to the swell, which snapped one cross bracing stay. The number three cylinder also was nut functioning. It was then decided to land the plane. With the skill ill help ol a boating company, this was successiully accomplished. Chichester compliment, ed them on their splendid achievement. On Monday morning an early start was made with the repairs and an overhaul of the engine. Chichester is being assisted by Mr Brent, a local garage owner. T*>e work is progressing satisfactorily. On its completion. Chichester will resume his flight to Sydney via Lord Howe Island. During his stay lie is the guest ol the Administrator and Mrs Martin. Chichester informed a Press Association representative that the preseii! was the most interesting flight thm lie had made. Great interest is shown locally in the flight. A MISHAP. (Received 10.30 a.in.) NORFOLK. ISLAND. March 31. Chichester launched his plane at 7.45 a.in. to-da.v on a .smooth sea and perfect conditions, but bis attempt to take off failed, owing to a cross stay again carrying away. Repairs are being carried out, and a further attempt will be made at noon.