SOUTHERN CROSS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3853, 4 October 1928, Page 3

SOUTHERN CROSS.

TEST FLIGHT BY AIR MARSHALL. Blenheim, October 3. This morning the Southern Cross made a test flight over Blenheim. Sir John Salmond was , in. control, with Squadron-Leader Kingsford Smith at the second joy stick. The machine gave a thrilling exhibition over the town, diving and wheeling almost on the roofs. Also aboard were Major Wilkes, Mr. Litchfield, Mr. H. R. Dick, president of the Aero Club, and Mr. C. A. MacDonald, secretary of the Club. Kingsford Smith was very pleased with the tests and complimented Sir John Salmond on his efficiency, although he had not flown a ’plane since 1920. During the flight the Southern Cross was placed on the course for Sydney, while Mr. Litchfield took azimuth observations with the object of correcting the compasses. AIRMEN VISIT CHRISTCHURCH. Christchurch, October 3. Christchurch was taken altogether by surprise this morning when Kingsford Smith and Flight-Lieu-tenant Ulm returned from: Blenheim in two of the machines from the Sockburn aerodrome. The visit was an unofficial one. Kingsford Smith stated on landing that he intended leaving for Blenheim again at 2.30 p.m. Ulm was not certain of his movements. In the event of his staying in the city to-night he will leave for Blenheim not later than to-morrow afternoon. The purpose of the visit to Christchurch was to obtain some equipment for the Southern Cross.