CHICHESTER MEETS FURTHER TROUBLES.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 77, 31 March 1931, Page 1

CHICHESTER MEETS FURTHER TROUBLES.

ATTEMPT TO LEAVE NORFOLK ISLAND FAILS. (United Press Assn.—By Electric T elegraph—Copyright.) (Received March 31, 10.15 a.m.) NORFOLK ISLAND, March 31. Mr Chichester launched his ’plane at 7.45 this morning on a smooth sea and under perfect conditions, but his attempt to take off failed, owing to a cross stay again carrying away. Repairs are being carried out, and a further attempt will be made at noon. Mr Chichester is uncommunicative, but the following authentic details have been supplied by the representative of the Vacuum Oil Company:— First notification of the flight was received here at 1.30 p.m. on Saturday. Arrangements for the landing were immediately made at Cascades. At 4.40 pm. Mr Chichester made a perfect landing. He was met on arrival by Mr Martin, acting for the Vacuum Oil Company, and Mr Leonard, representative of the Administrator. Congratulations on his successful flight were conveyed by Mr Leonard. After the reception Mr Chichester returned on board his ’plane for refuelling, which was successfully completed before dark. Cascades is an open roadstead. but fortunately the sea was smooth and the ’plane was moored for the night. On Sunday morning at 7 a.m. Mr Chichester left his moorings. After two attempts the ’plane failed to rise, and he taxied to Duncombe Bay on the north-western side of the island, unsuccessfully seeking smoother water. He returned half an hour Tater and after refuelling a further unsuccessful attempt was made. Owing to the swell which snapped one cross bracing stay, and to the fact that No. 3 cylinder was not functioning, he decided to land the ’plane, which, with the skilful help of the Boating Company, was successfully accomplished. Mr Chichester complimented his assistants on their splendid achievement. During his stay lie is the guest of the Administrator.