December 9
Today after much comment in the press and several small strikes at steel foundries across the nation the Chamber of Deputies appointed the economic advisors and interested deputies from all parties to discuss the government’s nationalisation plan.
December 14
Today at FMA’s Cordoba facility the biggest aircraft yet conceived in Argentina took off on its maiden flight. The prototype I.Ae 7 was flown by test pilot Flight Capitan Juan Estavez, co-pilot Lieutenant de Aero Claudio Chavez and engineer Horacico Castro. The thirty minute flight went well and although the undercarriage was not raised the aircraft handled well. Some trim problems were encountered but overall Flight Capitan Juan Estavez was pleased with the aircraft.
The I.Ae.7 has been developed to specifications laid down by Aeravias Argentinas S.A. for a new long-range airliner that should enter service in 1939. This is the biggest aircraft yet attempted in Argentina and it should be technically equal to any type available form America or Europe and ten have been ordered by Aeravias Argentinas S.A. off the drawing board. The wingspan is 32m; length 25m and wing area 1,300 sq ft; the four 1,380hp Bristol Hercules IVC twin-row radial engines should power the airliner to 275mph at 13,000ft and range with full fuel load in still air at 50% rated power should be 1,700miles. The pilot and co-pilot are seated in the cockpit with the navigator and radio-operator in a cabin behind, aft of this is the mail hold and galley then the main compartment 9.75m long; 3m wide; 2.13m high seating 36 passengers four-abreast. Aft is male and female toilets and baggage compartment, another is located under the forward cabin floor. Future developments of this interesting type may include a pressure-cabin for higher altitude flights.
December 23
The crane began lowering the pallet down from the ship’s side to flatbed train wagon on the quayside. Six dockers were directing it softly onto the concrete. Also on the quayside was a group of Army officers including Major General Antonio Miguel Barbera. Behind them Army photographers were clicking away with their cameras. A man climbed up to lift the canvas covers for the assembled officers and photographer. “Well men, this is the first of our new Panzer Twos. Our latest tank of the latest European type, one of the best light tanks in the world. Much better than our old Vickers six-tonners.” As he stood back as the crane was raising the second tank out of the ship’s hold.