In all construction the progressive system was worked out, by which machines, commencing at the first stage, moved on from section to section, receiving at each point the necessary additional touches, till at the end they emerged mechanically complete. The work was, in fact exactly like that at the Canadian Aeroplanes Limited, with the exception that in addition to new construction this unit shouldered as well the system of salvaging, by which great economies were without question effected. Over and above this, there went out from the Repair Park a constantly increasing flow of wooden members, which were absorbed by various flying units in repairs made on wings and ailerons at these stations.
Two graphs, given herewith, show the fluctuation in the quantity of work done, this fluctuation corresponding with demands made. These will be found to synchronize closely with other data giving the record of crashes, etc.
In a retrospection of the general operations of the brigade it has been impossible to find a scene of operations better organized than this Repair Park, or one of which the output was more uniformly dependable and mechanically satisfactory.
[Illustration: OFFICERS AND STAFF--AEROPLANE REPAIR PARK.]
[Illustration: OFFICERS AND STAFF--STORES DEPOT.]
Stores Depot has been the general receiving, distributing and clearing house for all supplies and equipment used by the brigade, and it is estimated that between 20,000 and 30,000 different types of articles and appliances have been carried in its spacious premises.
Provision of this organization was recognized as an imperative necessity at the very inception of the Corps. Its procedure has been from the start greatly assisted by the fact that the Aviation Department of the Imperial Munitions Board has acted as purchasing agent, and has always placed its unique facilities at the service of the R.A.F. and secured for the latter the very best possible terms and deliveries procurable. In order to reduce as far as possible the labor imposed upon the Imperial Munitions Board, the requirements of each unit for a definite length of time were estimated, grouped and submitted as one request. It will be understood that these requirements covered all needs from socks to propellers. This procedure is termed “provisioning.”