A BIG SCHEME.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LV, Issue 89, 13 March 1935, Page 7

A BIG SCHEME.

PROJECTED AT MILSON. FIRST-CLASS RUNWAY. Big alterations are pending at the Milson aerodrome in the event of Palmerston North being selected as the air junction for the inter-island services, and it was learned to-day by a “Standard” representative that conditional on the airways license sought by the large company wishing to operate from this centre being granted, immediate steps will be taken to provide extensive hangar accommodation, waiting rooms, control offices and a radio beacon at Milson. The latter will he necessary, it is stated, to give a directional wireless beam for twin-engined ’planes flying in had weather, or under poor visibility conditions. It will probably ho one of three such beacons, Blenheim and Ivaikoura being likely situations for the others.

The present size of the Milson aerodrome is 52 acres, and this area is to he extended by the acquisition, of large blocks of land on the southern and western sides. A gully will have to he piped and similar treatment given the drain on the northern boundary of the aerodrome. The Government has undertaken to survey the area, mid the main access to the aerodrome will, according to the plans formulated, be from the Milson settlement, bringing the landing ground one and & half miles nearer to the Post Office. The additional area will give a runway of over 900 yards, sufficient for the largest aircraft, and placing the aerodrome in the A class. The Manawatu Aero Club will retain its present hangar and use a subsidiary runway, enabling it to engage in flying activities without interfering with commercial ’planes. It is also proposed to put down an 18-hole golf comse round the areodrome immediately it is laid out. It is considered that the complete preparation of the ground, involving the lifting of the turf, levelling and returfing, will occupy' two years, possibly with relief labour on the contract system. However, if the ainyays license is granted, it will be possible, it is stated, to have the main runway rondy for the use of the commercial aircraft within three months of the survey being carried out.