Macbook air, reinstall osx problem

Question

I have a mac air early 2008, the hard drive broke so i got it replaced, now i need to install OSX.
I have created a flash with OSX bootable, created with mavrik app.
When i hold downt he option key to select boot from usb, it only shows the wifi option, no HDD, no usb, just wifi.
I try and hold down the keys from some of the boot commands and nothing seems to work other than the option key!
This is gettin very anoying as on windows i would just goto BIOS and chance start up drive, not so easy on a mac.
Thanks for you help
Davey

Answer 1

Wait... maybe you can use internet revcovery. That's the wifi icon....
OS X Internet Recovery
Mac models introduced after public availability of OS X Lion include the ability to start up directly from an Internet-based version of the OS X Recovery system. OS X automatically uses this feature when the Recovery System on the hard disk isn't available (such as when your hard disk encounters an issue, or when your hard disk has been replaced or erased). OS X Internet Recovery lets you start your Mac directly from Apple's servers. Starting up from this system performs a quick test of your memory and hard drive to check for hardware issues.
OS X Internet Recovery presents a limited interface at first, with only the ability to select your preferred Wi-Fi network and, if needed, entering a passphrase. Next, OS X Internet Recovery downloads and starts from a Recovery System image. From there, you are offered the same utilities and options as a local Recovery System.
Some computers that did not ship with OS X Lion or later installed may be able to add the ability to use Internet Recovery by applying a software update.