There is no doubt that there is a very definite requirement for V.T.O.L. and S.T.O.L. aircraft in Southern Africa. With the increasing tempo of development of the various territories, South of the Sahara, the need for S.T.O.L. and V.T.O.L. aircraft will increase rapidly. The aim of this paper is to point out a number of the requirements and to draw attention to some of the problems to be overcome, in connection with the application of such aircraft.

Statistical data referring to the areas, population densities and surface transport facilities of some of the African territories South of the Sahara, are given in Table I. As far as transportation facilities reflect the degree of development, it is clear that most of these territories are in a relatively underdeveloped state. In recent years, however, there has been an increasing rate of economic expansion in Africa, and with it a growing need for aircraft facilities. Apart from the usual applications, such as for passenger and freight transportation, there are duties, as follows, which are of special importance in Africa.