FOR ATLANTIC FLIGHT.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue LXVIII, 23 September 1914, Page 2

FOR ATLANTIC FLIGHT.

TRIAL TRIP OF WATERPLANE,

Lieut. Porte's flying boat, the America, in which he is to attempt a waterplane flight across the Atlantic, made its first journeys in the air over Lake Keuka, New York State, on Tuesday, June 23. The giant aircraft is designed by Mr Glenn Curtiss, who was on board, together with the pilot's mechanic. The trial flight of about three-quarters of a mile highly satisfied all concerned. Ballast was carried weighing I,ooolb—about half the weight of the petrol that will be required when the attempt proper is made. Lieut. Porte in a second flight sent the craft along the water sharply for about two miles, and then increased the speed to ten miles an hour, and liftedit about 50ft in the air, making the return journey wholly in. the air. The machine appeared to respond easily and immediately to every touch. It was previously named by Miss Mason, who on failing to smash a bottle of local champagne against the bow, was assisted by Lieut. Porte, with a hammer.

A strong desire was expressed that Great Britain should be represented at the launching by the Union Jack. As no such flag was available at,the time a British postage setamp wa's stuck up in front of the engine. The hearty' cheers accompanying this ceremony were the expresion of a general desire for the success of the combination of an American machine and British pilot. The completed machine has an enormous spread of wing, and is wonderfully stable. v ■