MIDGET AEROPLANES.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 75, 10 January 1936, Page 5

MIDGET AEROPLANES.

POPULARITY IN BRITAIN. “AVIATION FOR THE MASSES.” LONDON, December 7. The invention of the “Flying Flea” a small aeroplane that can be built at the price of the cheapest motor-car has made- “aviation for the masses” a reality. Two of these diminutive machines haye recently flown the channel at a petrol cost of about 6s, and the demand for them is such that over 1000 are already under construction in. Britain. “Flea” clubs are being formed all over the country, following the example of Victor Doree, of Leicester, who organised the first. ' Members of these clubs, with the freedom of the air at their disposal, will be able to enjoy their spare hours in a way they had formerly not thought possible. They will taka their week-end “flips” in squadrons—just as cycling clubs take to the road in formations of 20 and 30 now. If they wish, they will be able to fly down to the Cornwall or any other suitable bathing beaches for a dip before tea, and be back in London in time for bed. In the same manner the members of provincial clubs will be ab e to visit London and other cities for an evening’s enjoyment. . . All classes are becoming aircraft owners. Several people who wished to build “Fleas,” but could mot find the necessary £IOO, have clubbed together and formed syndicates—each taking it in turn to use the machine. One b lea is being built by a sixteen-yeai-o c schoolboy, and another by a man of more than 60. Several of the clubs are making provision for the Ilea owner who does not know how to fly. Some of the “Fleas,” .built to the minimum cost, will have only the barest necessities installed. Others vi be the last word in luxury. Some will have air-cooled motor-cycle engines, others the 10 horse-power car type engine. These types of craft do not require Air Ministry licenses, but thirclpartv insurance is compulsory.