By Isle of Wight Observer
The Isle of Wight Observer published on 15th February 1919 reported on a new transport service which it was hoped would start up on the Isle of Wight. It seems there was competition to deliver flights for Islanders.
AEROPLANE SERVICE.
A communication was received from Messrs John Dawson & Sons, Newcastle, referring to an aerial transport service which they proposed to arrange from towns on the South Coast, stating they were mapping out certain routes, but before deciding definitely upon the district where they would form stations, they desired to know the feelings of the Council and whether they would be prepared to give the necessary facilities. They asked that a reply should sent to their aviation department.
Alderman Sweetman thought they should ask a committee to co-operate with these gentlemen as the Council should be the first rather than the last to share in this innovation which he thought would be very popular.
Councillor Purnell proposed that they should delegate the necessary powers to the Public Works Committee and if they could obtain more favourable terms with the Newcastle firm and the latter could bring them a few knobs of coal by aeroplane he would prefer that they should work with them (hear, hear).
Alderman Thirkell seconded and it was carried.
The Mayor stated that a gentleman called on him a few days ago from the British Aerial Transport Co., concerning a proposal to run an aerial service from London to the Isle of Wight and that they were looking out for suitable places for landing. He suggested there were two sites close to Ryde where they could land, and it appeared that the company were anxious to start the service as early as May if they could get the consent of Government. The Mayor added that any of the Council who would like to take a trial trip would have the opportunity.