Description:

1911 (Feb 18) Allahabad-Naini picture postcard (160x125mm) of Henri Pequet at the controls of his biplane inscribed 'FIRST AERIAL POST, FEBRUARY 18, 11' - 'ALLAHABAD' omitted - carried on the world's first official airmail service signed by pilot "H Pequet" on view side with India KEVII 1a tied by fine strike of 'FIRST AERIAL POST/[biplane]/1911/U.P. EXHIBITION ALLAHABAD' cachet in rosine and 'ALLAHABAD' d/s alongside on reverse, two small closed edge tears and some minor creasing not affecting stamp or markings. [Only a combined total of 40 postcards of the two types flown]