Harvard Noise

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32032, 5 July 1969, Page 12

Harvard Noise

Sir,—Yesterday afternoon three aeroplanes were flying around Wigram—a Vampire, a Devon, and a Harvard. I was extremely puzzled about the quietness of the Harvard, and this was not in comparison with the other two. The Devon is normally quiet, and the scream of a jet soon disappears; but we are all aware of the dreadful earbashing of the Harvard, which this afternoon could not be told from -the gentle Devon except visually. I watched the Harvard climb, turn, etc, and the performance proves that the nerve-shattering noise to which we are subjected for hours on end (day and night) is not necessary. Will someone please explain why we have to put up with the devastating sound which drives us to distraction and, frequently, from our otherwise peaceful homes?—Yours, etc, SUVA STREET.

June 20, 1969. [The Air Officer commanding the R.N.ZA.F. Training Group, Wigram, replies: "Unfortunately the apparent quiet performance of the Harvard on this occasion could only have been due to an atmospheric phenomenon. For any manoeuvre requiring high power, or the ability to demand high power from the engine if required, it is necessary for propeller r.pjn. to be raised. These conditions pertain to operations in the vicinity of an airfield and lead to the distinctive Harvard noise.’’]