May 05, 1953 - FLYING OVER THE NORTH POLE: Two Hastings aircraft of the Royal...

May 05, 1953 - FLYING OVER THE NORTH POLE: Two Hastings aircraft of the Royal Air Force Flying College at Ranby, Lines., have just returned with these photographs taken by an air Ministry photographer on fly over and near the North Pole. Each aircraft circled the Geographical Pole on two 11-hour fights from the Royal Canadian Air Force base at Resolute Bay, which is within the Arctic circle (position: 74 degrees 50 minutes North, 95 degrees West). The flights, which involved flying 10,115 miles, gave practical training in high-altitude navigational work over featureless areas, where magnetic compasse are unreliable, using special techniques. Captained by Squadron leader H. D. Archer, D.F.C., and Flight Lieutenant R. W. Firmin, the aircraft each carried two staff navigators and five students, with other air and ground crew. BRITISH OFFICIAL PHOTO SHOWS: On returning from the North Pole, the two Hastings were inspected and serviced, and special engine covers were used.