TASMAN AIR SERVICES

Press, Volume C, Issue 29626, 23 September 1961, Page 15

TASMAN AIR SERVICES

First Qantas Flight

Two senior Qantas Empire Airways officials arrived in Christchurch yesterday for final discussions with local representatives of Tasman Empire Airways. Ltd., to ensure that all facilities are ready for the airline’s inaugural Tasman flight next month. The officials were Mr C. W. Nielson, director of commercial services for Qantas in Sydney, and the manager of the eastern division. Captain A. A. Barlow.

On the inaugural flight, which will be made by an Electra, will be airline officials and representatives of the Australian press and travel agencies. The aircraft is due at Christchurch on the afternoon of October 4. Captain Barlow said that as Qantas already had sales offices in Wellington and Auckland, one would also be established in Christchurch soon. “The time factor will depend on just how soon we are able to get what we want in the way of suitable office accommodation,” he said.

The services to be provided by Qantas would be co-ordin-ated with those of T.E.A.L. to provide 50 flights a week, he said. During the peak summer season there would be 66 flights a week. The effect on Christchurch and the South Island is that now Qantas and T.E.A.L. will provide seven flights a week to Australia —two to Melbourne and five to Sydney.