THE TASMAN FLIGHT

Evening Post, Volume CV, Issue 17, 21 January 1928, Page 8

THE TASMAN FLIGHT

(To the Editor.) Sir, —"Briton's" caustic remarks in your issue of the 19th, and his uncalled-for attack as to why an American airplane was used in preference to an English machine, is certainly not characteristic of a true Briton. Captain Kight clearly stated that the Ryan monoplane was more suitable for the Xasman flight than any other type of 'plane, and as the whole world is fully aware of the wonderful performances put up by this class of machine over long distances, it is not for critics like "Briton" to criticise the selection of an American 'plane by men who know best. The Schneider Cup race referred to by "Briton" was undoubtedly a great triumph for England and the winning planes, but there is a vast difference between a 'plane going at the rate of nearly 300 miles an hour to one keeping up a continuous flight of about 100 miles an hour over the ocean for hours on end, which is the distinction claimed by the Ryan monoplane. It is genei-ally accepted that no engine is positively perfect, but the Wright "Whirlwind," as used in the Ryan monoplane, comes mighty close to being so, in view of recent performances. Why it failed on the Tasman flight after nearly (or perhaps it did roach) reaching New Zealand will probably never be known, but the fact remains and should always remain an vndisputed fact, that those responsible for the selection chose the best machine for the worst job, and it is therefore gross ignorance on the part of anyone to hand out unjust criticism like "Briton" does. In conclusion, I trust "Briton" will think twice before he again rushes into print with such criticism, and I also hope that if he has a conscience, he will show it by extending a little sympathy towards our two lost boys, their widows, and to Captain Kight in the great blow he has suffered by the loss of his comrades. —I am, etc., FAIR PLAY.