In this paper I propose not only to comment on the lessons learned in the flight over Everest and Kangchenjunga, but also to indicate approximately what is involved in the initiation and organisation of such an expedition. It can only be on the rarest of occasions that a scheme emerges full-fledged from the nests of the mind and this expedition was no exception.

In an interesting paper on the meteorology of India read before the Society in 1925, Sir Gilbert Walker gave a comprehensive account of the main elements of climate which affect the industrial and social well-being of the country, and dealt with the great question of seasonal weather forecasting, on which he has become the chief authority. I propose to-day to take up some of the newer means of dealing with Indian problems, and to add the consideration of a fresh item, the safeguarding of international aviation.

Prior to 1914 there was no night flying proper, as we know it to-day, and therefore, so far as I am aware, there was no night lighting. I must except, of course, the night flying exhibitions which were given at Hendon in this country and at a few places abroad.