N.Z. TO AUSTRALIA FLIGHT RUMOURED.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 46, 24 February 1931, Page 5

N.Z. TO AUSTRALIA FLIGHT RUMOURED.

MR CHICHESTER ASKED ABOUT HIS INTENTIONS,, (Special to the 44 Star.”) i AUCKLAND, February 23. Will -Mr F. C. Chichester, the New Zealand airman, who made a solo flight from England to Australia in January of last, year, be the first airman to essay a solo flight from. New Zealand to Australia, with Auckland as the starting point? . Repprts have been received from the south stating that his partner, Mr Goodwin, had stated that Mr Chichester was in Auckland awaiting suitable weather to hop off for Australia, the intention being to fit the machine with floats and carry a collapsible rubber boat. Mr Chichester flew to Auckland nine days ago, and he is now at the Ilobsonville air base attending to his Moth ’plane. Interviewed by telephone this afternoon, Mr Chichester said he had no definite plans. “ What are you in Auckland for?’* Mr Chichester was asked. “ Oh, I don’t know,” the airman replied. “Are you really contemplating a trip to Australia?” 44 1 really cannot say anything. I would like to get in touch with Mr Goodwin to ascertain what he really said.” Mr Chichester added: 44 My future plans are most indefinite. I might let you know something in a day or so.” “ Will you deny that it is your intention to fly to Australia?” Mr Chichester was then asked. ...After some hesitation he said that he would. Mr Chichester left on a visit to England in May, 1929, and, after nine months at Home, he purchased his own ’plane. • After thirty hours’ tuition he toured the Continent and shortly after he returned to England. He left suddenly one morning, saying only, “ Goodbye boys, I’m off to Australia.”