LETTERS BY AIR

Wairarapa Times-Age, 7 June 1940, Page 2

LETTERS BY AIR

MEANS OF COLLECTING MAIL. Since the introduction of the vast world air mail scheme, operators have been seeking a system which would obviate stops at small towns. Hundreds of devices have been tested, and the method now to be used is similar in idea to that used for military purposes by the British Royal Air Force. We hope it will be successful and prevent such accidents as the one which occurred a short time ago, when the parcel of air mails for a small town fell through the post office roof.

American air lines are to be first to use the new method. A windlass system is attached to the 'plane which lets down a rope, to which the'bag to be dropped is attached. When the bag hits the ground and puts a strain on the rope, it is automatically released. Fifteen feet above the released bag is a grappling hook. The 'plane is flown in a straight line between posts 25 feet high, strung between which is the outgoing mail bag. The grappling hook catches the bag and the windlass hauls it in as the ’plane gains altitude. If such a system proves successful, it will enable small towns without proper aerodromes to enjoy the benefits of an air mail service. At the same time it represents a big saving in time and money, since landing and taking offi costs far more money than maintaining an even speed for many miles. I