Oppresively High

Trans-Pacific Air Fares Are Oppresively High

THE comment was made, in the_June issue of the “PIM,” that the single fare of £55, Auckland to Suva, an nounced by Pan American Airways, was very high, arid not likely to popularise Pacific air travel.

It has been pointed out that the amount of this fare is purely nominal. Despite the implications of the Bermuda Agree ment, and the fact that, in the original agreement between the New Zealand Government and Pan American Airways, provision had to be made for carrying passengers between Auckland and Pacific Island ports, Pan American Airways is not now permitted to pick up passengers in Auckland for Fiji.

Pan American Airways calculate their fares on a basis of 8 cents per mile. The distance from Auckland to Noumea, and from Noumea to Suva, is around 2,000 miles, equal to 160 dollars, or over £5O at present exchange rates.

If a powerful private company like Pan American Airways were given “an open go” on this Trans-Pacific air route, cheap rates would be introduced in quick time.

But the Socialistic Governments of Aus tralia, New Zealand and Britain have established a monopoly, in this sphere, and are determined to maintain very high rates.

The situation, like that in New Guinea relating to shipping, is Gilbertian. On the grounds that they are striking at monopolistic private enterprise, the Gov ernments have themselves grabbed the transport facilities; and now they are creating conditions so oppressive and ex pensive that the common people are praying for the return of the “monopo listic” private companies. That is especi ally the case in New Guinea.