Gatty Denies Test Flight Probable

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 25, 30 January 1937, Page 6

Gatty Denies Test Flight Probable

MUST WAIT HIS WORD. Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, Last Night. A statement that it was impossible for plans to be made for his company to undertake a survey flight to New Zealand until it had received word from him of a satisfactory conclusion of the present negotiations with the New Zealand Government, was made to-night by Harold Gatty, Australia and New Zea- ■ land representative of Pan-American Airways, and tho Douglas Aircraft Corporation Ltd., who is in Wellington. “I have no knowledge of any 'plane in San Francisco being prepared for a survey flight to New Zealand," he said. "A 'plane that is there is destined as far as I know, for the Maniia-Hong Kong route. However, 1 cannot answer for ban Francisco. It is perfectly true men were despatched along tho ban Francisco-New Zealand route and preparations have been made in continuation of tho plans that have been going on for the last year and a-half. As to the possibility of a survey flight down to New Zealand, I disclaim any definite knowledge of it. It is impossible for us to make a flight until negotiations are completed. We have made no secret of your preparations and the rest is entirely dependent upon the decision of tho New Zealand Government." Harold Gatty said he would remain in New Zealand until negotiations were completed one way or the other concerning the extension of the agreement allowing tho company to fly to New Zealand, which expired on December 31.