EUROPE TO AMERICA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19717, 17 August 1927, Page 11

EUROPE TO AMERICA.

CONTRACT TO MAKE FLIGHT.

FRENCHMAN'S HIGH SALARY.

PARIS. Aug. 8. Mr. Charles Levine, the American millionaire who accompanied Clarence Chamberlain on his transatlantic flight two months ago, has composed his differences with the French airman, Drouhin. They have signed an agreement by which the last-named becomes Levine's pilot for a year at a salary of 100,000 francs. Drouhin has contracted to pilot the "Columbia" from Europe to America within three months. If he is displaced or is prevented from undertaking the flight, he will receive 100,000 francs damages. Mr. Levine further undertakes to deposit in tho Bank of France 300,000 francs which will be paid to Drouhin's wife if he loses his life.

The Frenchman will receive 50 per cent, of the profits arising out of a successful flight. The agreement becomes void if tho "Columbia" is forestalled on the flight. Drouhin's definite contract to pilot the "Columbia" from France to New York has stimulated interest in the so-called race to be the first aviator to fly from Europe to America. Two French rivals, Givon and Costes, are already in the field, and two Germans are probable competitors. It is reported that Costes intends to anticipate Drouhin if possible. Having converted his military machine into a seaplane, he has now received official permission to make the attempt.