AIR TAXI-CARS

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLV, Issue 1210, 7 January 1925, Page 6

AIR TAXI-CARS

ONE SHILLING A MILE. U.S. SCHEME FOR SKY HANSOMS. NEW YORK. Nov. 12. 'There is more than a possibility that the German-built Zeppolin ZR3 (re-uamod Los Angeles) will soon make some more trips across the Atlantic definitely to test the practicability of employing this type oi dirigible airship in passenger freight services between the States and Europe. Under the Treaty, Ix>s Angeles cannot bo used for military purposes, nor without authorisation of Congress can she be disposed <ff to commercial interests. Mr Wilbcr, the Navy Secretary, is considering suggestions that U.S. naval aviators should man her for the test stated. Inflated with helium, the non-inflarn-mable sun gas, Los Angeles may well demonstrate noble qualities as a commercial air liner. Like the American-built _ and helium charged Shenandoah, which recently crossed th« Continent to the Pacific and Sack, the German craft is about to be subjected to rigid overland tests. Coincidentally it is announced that air tajci-cabs. designed to carry passengers for la a mile, will shortly be placed on the market.

These are being built ot Dayton. Ohio, by a concern headed by Colonel Hartley, w'ho commanded the first pursuit squadron with the American army in France. Nine air cabs ore being prepared for operation in Chicago, and four squadrons of three each for other centres. They are being equipped with devices to make nose dives and baulking of motors impossible. Motors of 90 h.p. will drive them at a maximum speed of 100 miles an hour.