FUTURE OF AIRSHIPS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22777, 10 July 1937, Page 16

FUTURE OF AIRSHIPS

THE GERMANS' CONFIDENT I * • v' 1 ■ HELiUM; SUPPLY QUESTION * ; ' ! ■ ' m'l -7 COMMENT BY DR. LUTHER There is a firm will in Germany to continue in co-operation with the United States with transatlantic airship flights, according to Dr. Hans Luther, who until recently was German Ambassador to the United States at Washington, and who arrived at Auckland by the Mariposa yesterday. 110 was sure a solution would bo found for the problem of finding a constant supply of helium. Dr. Luther said that onco the fire danger had been overcome in airships, this means of transport should become a popular means of travel. Ho had been a passenger in the ill-fated Hindenburg, which, in his opinion, was moro comfortable than aeroplanes. Heroic deeds had been performed by Americans and Germans alike when the Hindenburg crashed in ilames at Lakehurst, New Jersey, flying field. The fortitude, bravery and self-sacrifice of those who were present, their heroism and coolness in the face of danger, had greatly impressed him, said Dr. Luther. "I spoke to those who were in hospital," he added, "and although they were in great pain they spoke of the disaster as something which no one could have forecast. It was a time of great confidence, courage and faith.

"One of the officers, ■who was in great pain when I saw him, said he felt it dishonourable that more of the crew than the passengers were saved, but later, when ho learned the reverse was the case, he was easier in his mind. You see, beforo ho took to the air.he was a seaman, and he had the sailor's idea of what should bo done in times of peril."