AVIATION

Otago Witness, Issue 3619, 24 July 1923, Page 19

AVIATION

ENCIRCLING THE EARTH. LONDON, July 19. The probability of an early decision in connection with the big airship scheme (the Burney scheme) which will later take in Australia was suggested by the Duke of Sutherland (Under Secretary for Air) at the annual meeting of the A'ir League of the British Empire. He said he believed that a scheme would soon be arranged which would have far-reaching effects m linking up the Empire. The Minister continued : “We will gradually move in stages in that direction, first Egypt, then India and Australia, and then round the world. “ The only way to prevent future wars in the air,” he continued, “is to have an Air Eorce proportionate in size to the strength of the Empire. Extensive improvements are now being considered, especially the amalgamation of various companies concerned in civil aviation and the .employment of large sums of private capital.” ■TORPEDOES FROM THE AIR. Julv One of the most interesting of the British aircraft on exhibition at Gothenburg is a Blackburn seaplane which can carry between the chassis a special largesized torpedo, similar to the type used on warships. The seaplane, descending about 30ft above water, will launch the torpedo under cover of a smoke screen from ether aeroplanes. • RACE FOR GLIDERS. PARIS, July 16. Eight started in the motor glider Grand Prix for a prize of 100,C€0 francs. Coupet was the only competitor to finish, covering the 200 miles at an average speed of 51 miles an hour. Barbot succumbed to engine trouble.