Aviation

Cromwell Argus, Volume LXI, Issue 3163, 18 May 1931, Page 5

Aviation

"WHITE STAR" PLANE AT CROMWELL. LANDING-G ROUND SELECTED. The '-White Star" aeroplane, with Capfc White and Mr 11. M. Mac Kay, of N.Z. Airways Ltd., on board, arrived at Cromwell on Tuesday last and landed at Cromwell Racecourse. The plane had left Oamaru that morning for Pembroke, where the Otago morning daily paper was delivered at 11.30 a.m., and in the afternoon the journey was continued to Cromwell. One of the chief objects of the visit was to select a landing-ground for this district. Various sites had been suggested but a visit from Capt. White was awaited. After visiting several parts Capt. White was at once impressed with the great possibilities of the Racecourse. Particulars as to measurements, etc, supported Capt. White's early opinion, and steps were at once taken to place the matter in order. The controlling body, the Racecourse Trust, was consulted, and after a conference with the lessee, it was decided to grant the use of the area subject to the necessary safeguards in the interest of the lessee. Capt. Wm'te made no secret of the fact that the site was ideal in all respects, with a splendid surface. The runwavs, 130 c yards north and south, and 1 coo yards, cast to west, are excelled in only two places in the Dominion, at Marlborough and at Sbckbur'n. The surroundings are clear of obstacles, with adjoining wide areas in the case of a forced lauding. Capt. White informs us that by reason of its distinctive features the site can up from a, long way off. .\s a training ground he considers it one of the l£st in the Dominion. It is capable of easilv accommodating the largest plane, and has a surface that is unaffected by moisture. It is certain that CromwetH's landing-ground will soon be known as one of the best in the Dominion, and after so much thought the town is indeed fortunate in having such a splendid area made so readilv available. \ Mtlo fillmgin of old water courses is all the ground work required and a mast for a windindicating balloon is the only fixture required/ This is to be. put in hand right away. The* plane remained 111 Cromwell over the week-end and had a busv time.. It leaves for Tarras on Tuesday.