UP IN THE AIR.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 1986, 5 June 1919, Page 2

UP IN THE AIR.

AA'hilo in Christchurch last week, Mr llorublow visited the Canterbury Aviation School at Sockburn, and took a flight in the largest aeroplane. The weather was ideal, for Hying, and a magnificent view was obtained at an altitude of 2,000 feet of the city, Canterbury plains, etc. The plane, although the best at the school, is obsolete when compared to the machines used in England and on the Continent, and is not used for prolonged llights. The engine was of 90 b.p., which under favourable conditions gives a speed of 90 miles. The flight lasted about a quarter of an hour. The first sensation upon leaving the earth is not unlike going up in a lift —but (his only lasts for a few seconds. As (he plane rises the objeets upon the earth become smaller, and gives one the impression of a draught board. A magnificent view of the Canterbury plains was obtained, and the surrounding country. A slight haze overhung the city. Over the racecourse, where a trotting meeting was in progress, the crowds of people looked like swarms uf bees. Motor cars could be seen (ravelling along, (ho roads —very miniature affairs—and Hie river had the appearance of a silver streak. A double sunset was also witnessed, one lief ore (he flight, and the oilier from the air. A prod in the hack from the pilot's boot was a means of communication to ascertain whether (lie passenger was alright, and a toucS on the right or left arm to look down at objects on either side. It was impossible to carry on any conversation, owing to the noise of the rushing air. The descent was very rapid and skilfully accomplished. The experience of a flight in this class of machine is accompanied with a good deal of risk unless the conditions are favourable. The pilot was Mr J. AY, Mercer.