AN AERIAL LINER.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 October 1922, Page 9

AN AERIAL LINER.

LARGEST FLYING BOAT. A SEAWORTHY HULL A giant flying boat, the largest air liner in the world, is under construction at the Supormarine Aviation Works, Southampton. It is asserted that it will be able to fly from an English port to New York in 24 hours, and may carry 30 to 40 passengers in addition to the crew.

The greatest secrecy is being observed in its construction, and oniy tnree or four people are acquainted with the details. The workmen employed in the manufacture of the various parts are sworn to secrecy. Special attention has been given to the hull, which involves certain new principles, and. in appearance. is like that of a large ship. When ready for the air. this “hueh-huch” commercial craft will be fitted with two engines, each of which will be of <»5O h.p. Designs have been produced for both cargo and passenger-carrying flying ships, and in each case the size is far in excess of any flying boat that has ever before been built. If a descent at sea should he necessary, the ship, it is claimed, will be able to land safely in the worst weather, and to ride at anchor or to proceed through the water under its own power w’ '

ith perfect safety. It ie the design of the hull, which does not add to the weight of the craft above the normal, that makes it equally safe as an air machine or as an ocean-going ship. Like the latest “Sea Lion” flying boat, the hull is made in a single piece from stem to stern.

If the normal freight were replaoed by fuel the vessel would be able to stay at sea for very long periods at a time, and thia is likely to give it considerable value as a fighting craft. As such it would be a veritable cruiser of the skies. It is also able to climb rapidly to considerable altitudes. ‘‘She is being built,” said Mr. ScottPayne, “to go to sea, and stop at sea even in very heavy weather. The primarv object ig to construct a hull that will be perfectly seaworthy and yet can fly. There will be living quarters on board for the crow. The idea of this great ship was conceived at the Supermarine Aviation Works, and we put it before the Air Ministry about 18 months ago. We are now developing the plan at these works for the Air Ministry. We have made good propress with the hull, and it is expected to be readv for launching in September. The completion of the flying boat JI expect, will take about 12 months, and it will strike a new line in craft for flying above the ocean.”