LOW-FLYING AIRCRAFT

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 38, 16 February 1943, Page 4

LOW-FLYING AIRCRAFT

COLLISION WITH TANK ALLEGED (P.A.) Christchurch, Feb. 15. An alleged collision between A lowflying aircraft and an Army tank near Christchurch on January 5 led to the appearance of Flying-Officer Francis Woodward, R.N.Z.Z F., before a general court-martial this morning. Flying-Officer Woodward pleaded not guilty to the following charges: (1) An act in flying which was likely to cause bodily injury in that, being the captain of an aircraft, he did fly in such a manner as to collide with a tank; (2) Negligently damaging an aircraft to the extent of £22; (3) An act to the preiudice of good order and Air Force discipline in that, when engaged in instruction in low-flying, he flew at a height below 250 ft.

Evidence was called to show that FlyingjOfficer Woodward was the captain o“ the aircraft and was demonstrating operational low-flying. Several tanks were in the vicinity and the aircraft collided with the turret of one. As a result the tank was slightly damaged and the aircraft to the exten of £22. The height of the turret of the tank from the ground was stated to be Bft. or 10ft. Pilot-Officer Woodward was found not guilty of the charge of acting to the prejudice Jf good order and discipline. Decisions on the other two charges will go forward to the confirming authorities for consideration.