A MID-AIR THRILL.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 5, Issue 165, 14 April 1916, Page 3 (Supplement)

A MID-AIR THRILL.

The Hying corps of all the armies liuve distinguisher.' themselves ior daring and gallantry during the present war. An eye-witness at the i-riiisli Headquarters, says the "Field," tells about one thrilling episode that was more sensational than mot of the adventurous exploits that occur along the front almost daily. A British airman, alone in a singleseated aeroplane, saw and pursued .1 German machine. Wh.le trying to reload his niachine gun he lost control of his steering gear, and the aeroplane turned upside (.own. The belt round the man's waist was rather loose, and the jerk almost threw him out of the machine. but lie saved biiii>elf by clutching bold ol the rear centre strut, while the belt slipped down round Ins !e^s. As he bung, thus, head downwards, making desperate effort's to disengage his legs, the aeroplane fell from a height of SIM 10 feet to about 2500 feet, spinning round and route.' like falling leaf. At last be managed to free his legs and reach the control lever with iiis foot. Then lie succeeded in righting r-.e machine, which turned slowly over, comp'etely " looping Ibe loop." Thereupon Ihe pilot slid back into his seat en 1 came composedly to the ground.