FEVERISH HASTE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22545, 12 April 1935, Page 10

FEVERISH HASTE

BUILDING OF AIRCRAFT THE UNITED STATES FACTORIES LOS ANGELES, April 1. Though he has been in the United States only a few days, Captain Edgar Johnston, Commonwealth Controller of Civil Aviation, declares that his visit has already proved invaluable. He considers that the progress of aviation here is astounding, and full of lessons for Australia. Captain Johnston has toured the airports and aircraft factories, and had conferences with Department of Commerce and other officials, also “aces,” including the Tasmanian, Harold Gatty, Wiley Post, and Laura Engels, His visit to the Lockheed factory, he says, was most impressive. Work was proceeding at a feverish pace. The Sydney Sun, representative counted eight aeroplanes nearing completion, and others in course of construction. Officials estimate that 1935 production will average one machine a week. Other factories are equally busy. The Douglas factory, in addition to large orders for commercial aeroplanes, is working on secret army contracts. Captain Johnston discussed the transpacific plans of Pan-American Airways, whose 19-ton flying boat, commanded by Captain Musick, has arrived at San Diego, in preparation for its experimental mail flight from San Francisco to Honolulu. He is satisfied that the company will be able to execute its plans for a regular North Pacific crossing before the end of the year. Officials here suggest the possibility of establishing a feeder service from Manila to link with the England-Aus-tralia airway.