811.2300/40: Telegram
The High Commissioner in Turkey ( Bristol ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 1:55 p.m.]
22. Referring to the Department’s 236, December 22, 3 p.m.10 and 15, January 18, 7 p.m.11 Treat12 reports from Angora as follows:
“January 29, 3 p.m. In a conversation with the Under Secretary today he states that a reply to your request for permission for United States aeroplanes to include Turkey in their world flight itinerary had been given on January 21 to the effect that the Government is desirous of having Turkey omitted from the itinerary, giving as reasons that safety to machines and crews could not be assured, or that the flight over Turkey should be postponed until appropriate arrangements could be made. The Under Secretary was informed that the personnel of the expedition would strictly observe regulations concerning [omission] et cetera, it was furthermore pointed out that the Turks would be deriving distinct benefits from such visit. The Under Secretary conveyed the impression that the question might be subjected to further examination, but brought to my attention in the conversation that an identical refusal has been given to a British request of similar nature.”
The fact that I have not received this message officially from Adnan Bey as yet gives me hope he is still endeavoring to persuade Angora to meet our request. I will telegraph further information as soon as possible.