TRANS-ATLANTIC FLIGHTS
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—Is it not time that public feeling asserted itself against trans-Atlantic " hops " ? As long as people and the Press continue to idolize Atlantic flyers, so long will these rather foolish stunts continue.
When it is considered how little knowledge of scientific or practical import is gleaned—especially in comparison with, say, the balloon ascent of Prof. Piccard—it seems surprising that these flights command the attention they do. They prove nothing—only that the pilot has an amazing store of energy and perseverance.
Officially, the objective of these flights usually given is
(a) to be the " first " this or that, (b) to prove the" superiority" of this or that, and (c) to prove the practicability of a regular service—which, of course, is stupid because nearly every Atlantic flight made has been held up days, and in some cases weeks, on account of-weather. Actually, ft seems apparent that the pilot's motives must be in most eases to (a) earn a useful income, (b) acquire an abundance of publicity, honour and glory for himself.
From the mechanical point of view the superiority of British aeroplanes can be proved—if this is necessary— to far greater advantage and at .far less risk to the lives of our brilliant pilots, in international ail' races.—I am, Sir, &e., II. W. WARD. - Sambrook Hall, Wellington, Shropshire.
[If a trans-Atlantic service is ever to be organized there must be pioneers who will risk a good deal. But a distinction may properly be drawn between flights with such a- purpose and flights that can lead to nothing.—En. Speetatorl
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