Practically it is impossible to employ the flying machine,
whether it be a dirigible or an aeroplane, in this field. Many
factors militate against such an application. In the first place
there is a very wide difference between dry land and a stretch of
water as an area over which to manoeuvre. So far as the land is
concerned descent is practicable at any time and almost anywhere.
But an attempt to descend upon the open sea even when the latter
is as calm as the proverbial mill-pond is fraught with
considerable danger. The air-currents immediately above the
water differ radically from those prevailing above the surface of
the land. Solar radiation also plays a very vital part. In fact
the dirigible dare not venture to make such a landing even if it
be provided with floats. The chances are a thousand to one that
the cars will become water-logged, rendering re-ascent a matter
of extreme difficulty, if not absolutely impossible. On the
other hand, the aeroplane when equipped with floats, is able to
alight upon the water, and to rest thereon for a time. It may
even take in a new supply of fuel if the elements be propitious,
and may be able to re-ascend, but the occasions are rare when
such operations can be carried out successfully.
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