The Landing "T"

[MikeMeech]

Hi

 

Does anyone know when the cloth Landing "T", that indicated wind direction for an aerodrome or landing ground was introduced into the RFC and where from?

 

I have 1915 references for it from:

 

1.  'Training Manual, RFC Part II (Military Wing) 1915' under 'Landing Places'.

2.  A draft of 'Co-operation of Aeroplanes with Other Arms' with a covering letter dated 3rd April, 1915'.

3.  The September 1915 edition of 'Instructions for Communication between Aeroplanes and Cavalry', which states under ground communications:

"Z = Land (at the landing ground which will be marked with a 'T' in the usual manner)."

 

It must pre-date April 1915, and was considered 'usual' at least by September 1915.  The question is whether it came from a pre-war aviation use or during the war.

 

The RFC Concentration Camp in 1914 appears to have used a different method, according to a report in 'Flight' of 26 June, 1914:

"Here also a flagstaff erected upon which the flags and streamers are hoisted for indicating-according to the colour and position of the flag or streamer-that flying is in progress, the direction of the wind and the direction in which a pilot should rise or land."

 

This method appears to be an adaption of 'air show' signals, but, not really suitable for mobile military operations. 

Example from the 1915 'Training Manual' is attached.

 

Many thanks

 

Mike