THRILL IN THE AIR

Taranaki Daily News, 22 September 1921, Page 5

THRILL IN THE AIR

A BALLOON OUT OF CONTROL. A REMARKABLE ESCAPE. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—copyright. Received Sept. 21, 5.5 p.m. London, Sept. 21. Thirteen out of fourteen balloons have landed after a race from Brussels to England. It is unofficially stated that the British Banshee is thus far the winner, covering the longest distance unaided. She landed at Carmarthen, with 416 miles to her credit. Haufmann and McKibben, who manned the United States No. 10 balloon, tell a thrilling rtory of their escape after a fall into the Irish Sea. They were within five miles of the shore, but owing to a falling wind they were unable to land, and they drifted, having only four bags of ballast left. They sighted two ships and dropped Holmes lights. The vessels turned, but decided that the balloon was not in danger, and went on.

The balloon had now two bags of ballast. The aviators cut the drag ropes to pieces and threw out spare clothing and instruments, but nevertheless the balloon slowly sank to the water. Fortunately they saw another vessel and cast another light. Seeing it was their only chance, Haufmann and McKibben then lowered the balloon down to the waves. The captain of the ship lowered a boat, but as the balloon reached the sea McKibben was struck on the head by a load ring and knocked off the basket into the water. Relieved of his weight, the balloon shot skywards like a rocket, carrying Haufmann, who had no option but to rip the envelope and take a sporting chance. So he descended and was picked up fifteen miles off Dublin and landed safely. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.