FLIGHT TO AUSTRALIA

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22259, 6 November 1935, Page 14

FLIGHT TO AUSTRALIA

" TERRIBLE CONDITIONS" KINGSFORD SMITH'S ATTEMPT LONDON. Oct. 25 When* Sir Charles Kingsford Smith returned to Croydon' after starting for Australia officials said that they had not seen a machine, in worse condition and still flying. He is well and, .although disappointed, will take off again as soon as the aeroplane is fixed up and' the weather forecasts justify a start. Sit. Charles said that when they wore in mountainous country near tho Gulf of' Corinth they could not. see 10yds. Ho flew round for 15 minutes in terrible conditions, then decided to make for the nearest aorodrome, which was Brindisi. Thero was grave danger of tho torn wings and ice formation making 'the machine uncontrollable on the way back. Visibility was almost nil. Ho had to fly over water, not knowing the exact whereabouts or whether he would be permitted to land, but ho trusted tho Italians would understand his dire necessity. Ho reached Brindisi in darkness to find the aerodrome 'unlit. Ho iltnv round, announcing his desiro to land. Italians obtained motor-cars, their headlights enabling him to land •ul'ely.