Eleven Given Up as Dead

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 36, 12 February 1937, Page 7

Eleven Given Up as Dead

Plane’s Dive Into Sea MACHINE FLOATING UPSIDE DOWN United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 11. In the passenger plane tragedy in San Francisco the 11 occupants have been given up as dead. Eight of them were representative of wealth, society and business, including Mr. Mark Fontana, the petroleum millionaire. The huge 21-passenger Douglas airliner was later found floating upside down and partially submerged. Ef- , forts to tow it ashore were unsuccess- • ful and a derrick and diver were order- , ed to the screen. Ambulances and doctors remained throughout the night at the airport, although it seemed certain that the occupants were dead. I The ship apparently landed on its | nose and hurtled back. The fuselage j appeared intact but the tail was badly smashed. Experienced pilots suggest that the pilot, Tommy Thompson, a veteran flyer, misjudged his altitude. The dispatcher at the airport stated that he had conversed by wireless with Thompson and gave him landing instructions. He was then amazed to see the aeroplane circle and head out to sea. Since December 15, 43 persons have been killed in five crashes in the Far West. TIP OF WING HIT WATER. PILOT’S SECOND ATTEMPT TO LAND. Received Thursday', 10.30 p.m. SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 11. In connection with the aeroplane tragedy Mr Roper said early reports indicated tnat the pilot was dissatisfied with his first glide towards the landing and flew over the bay to prepare a second attempt. He turned the ’plane and the rght tip of the 90-foot wing apparently hit the water causing the disaster. Mr Vidal said structural or engine failure was unlikely. Major Schreeder, chief investigator of the Department of Commerce, has been sent to the Coast to direct the investigation. Air Roper announces eleven recommendations resulting from the recent Air Safety Conference involving the use on all air lines of new and improved instruments, and the stricter training of pilots including flying blind, and better approach lights at air ports. MILLIONAIRE’S BODY RECOVERED Received Thursday, midnight. SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 11. Coastguardsmen with grappling hooks recovered the body of Alark Fontana from the muddy bottom of the bay. It bore evidence that he struggled desperately to escape. A preliminary examination indicated that death resulted from drowning. The search is being discontinued tonight. It is now believed the crew remained with the ’plane while the passengers endeavoured to escape.