AIR SERVICE OPENED

Southland Times, Issue 24114, 1 May 1940, Page 7

AIR SERVICE OPENED

GOOD TRIP OVER TASMAN BEAUTIFUL WEATHER FOR LANDING PASSENGERS PLEASED WITH EXPERIENCE (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright) (Rec. April 30, 9.55 p.m.) SYDNEY, April 30. Forging the last link in Australia’s chain of aerial connections with the world, the Aotearoa alighted at Rose Bay at 1.50 o’clock this afternoon to inaugurate the long awaited Tasman air mail and passenger service. The actual landing in beautiful weather was broadcast, together with a two-way conversation with the flying-boat many miles over the sea. The Federal Government was represented at the arrival by the Minister for Air (Mr J. V. Fairbairn), who congratulated Captain J. W. Burgess, the commander, and representatives of the cooperating companies on the consummation at long last of an important air link between the sister Dominions. Mr Taylor, New Zealand Government Commissioner in Australia, spoke in similar strain. With the utmost cordiality he shook hands with members of the crew.

Tributes to the crew were paid by Mr A. E. Rudder, representative for Australia and New Zealand of the British Overseas Airways Corporation,

Mr W. Hudson Fysh, managing director of Qantas Empire Airways, and Mr C. G. White, a director of the Union Steam Ship Company, the latter also praising the part played by Colonel N. S. Falla, chairman of the Union Company. The passengers stated that the weather generally was very good. The trip was made at an average altitude of 5000 feet. The Aotearoa was extremely steady and comfortable. All the passengers had a feeling of the utmost security.