CLIPPER'S FLIGHT

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23512, 24 November 1939, Page 6

CLIPPER'S FLIGHT

THE LAST STAGE ARRIVAL "TO-DAY WELCOME BY MINISTER BRIEF AUCKLAND STAY The important part played by the meteorologist in modern commercial aviation was exemplified yesterday when indications of unfavourable weather off the coast of New Zealand resulted in Pan American Airways' Honolulu Clipper being held in New Caledonia. The Boeing was scheduled to fly to Auckland yesterday, but a forecast supplied to Mr. D. Walker, airport manager for Pan American Airways in Auckland, as well as poor visibility on the hiirbom*, made it advisable for the flight to be postponed. The Clipper, leaving Noumea at five o'clock this morning, New Zealand time, is scheduled to land on the Waitemata Harbour between 12.30 and one o'clock this afternoon, according to advice received by Mr. Walker yesterday afternoon. This is an alteration in the original schedule, and will result in the machine reaching Auckland about two hours earlier in the day than had been anticipated. The Minister of Defence, the Hon. J . Jones, will be at the Pan American Airways base to welcome Captain .A. Cliithe and his crew when the Clipper arrives. There will be no formal reception, but as the Minister's visit to Auckland coincides with the flight, he intends to take the opportunity of welcoming the commander and crew. Mr. F. Maurice Clarke, manager of Union Airways of New Zealand, Limited, will also be present. On account of the delay in her southward flight, the Clipper will remain in Auckland only overnight. She will leave for Noumea at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, if the weather is suitable.