WHAT SI COSTS FOR A RECORD FLIGHT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 18 June 1936, Page 3

WHAT SI COSTS FOR A RECORD FLIGHT

PILOT STANDS THE LOSS AND LITTLE GAIN IF THEY WIN (By Air Mail—From a Special Correspondent.) LONDON. 10th May. The success of Mrs Amy Mollison on her London-Cape flight, and the desire of many others to “do the flight to Australia” in record time raises these interesting questions: What is the fascination of record breaking? Are there large fortunes to be made? Bo the backers or the pilots make big money? What prompts a man or woman to fly 10,000 miles to Australia in acute discomfort and danger for the prize of reducing a flight time by a few hours? The answers arc astounding. The actual record-breaker is lucky indeed if he recovers the money he has had to lay out for the flight and makes a profit of £250 to £3O0 — small reward for the fatigue and danger he has experienced. If the attempt fails the flier may be £1,500 to £2,000 out of pocket. The real gainer is the firm which makes the aircraft chosen. The manufacturers receive thousands of pounds worth of free advertisement. Meanwhile, the aviator is appearing on lecture tours, appearing at theatres —making what profit he can. In the last two flights to the Cape those of Tommy Rose and Mrs Mollison, the aircraft were lent by manufacturers. Both fliers had to pay expenses. And expenses count for a great deal. There is provision for fuel and oil, which may account for £3OO. If the attempt succeeds this charge is actually waived by the fuel companies, and the petrol provided free. If it fails it must be paid for. There is insurance, which may be as much as £SOO. If the first attempt fails and the aircraft is damaged this premium must be paid again before the_ next attempt. New aviation firms, anxious to set their product before the public, may pay expenses for a record attempt. They receive any money the pilot makes and pay him a fee. Why do pilots still break records if there is so little cash in it? One said, “I don’t know. It’s not worth the candle.” Another said: “Although there is little money to be made directly from the flight, the publicity can be useful.” “I must be crazy. I like to do it” said the third.