Aircraft and aviation Books

Book SynopsisAn enthralling historical detective story of a dream becoming an obsession, in a post-truth world of 'alternative facts' and ‘fake news’

Read more less

Book SynopsisFlying ‘Anything to Anywhere’: the life of pilot Pauline Gower, MBE, who led the women of the Air Transport Auxiliary during WW2Trade Review'A magnificent and most readable effort' – Medal News * Medal News *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAir-route development in Africa was a result of Sir Alan Cobham''s 1929 flight through and round Africa in a flying-boat. Lady Cobham accompanied her husband throughout the journey. This work features Sir Alan Cobham''s account of his journey. First published in 1930, it is illustrated with over 50 photographs from the trip, from the family archive.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Brabazon the name evokes the immediate post-war optimism of civil aviation. The giant airliner was built by Bristol Aircraft in 1949 to cross the Atlantic and serve the empire. However, the plane proved to be a commercial failure when airlines felt that it was too large and expensive to be useful. Large and luxurious, it carried only 60-80 passengers, and with a range of 5,000 miles, a 225ft wing span and eight engines buried in the wings with enough fuel to reach New York, the 100-ton bomber' was more impressive and capable than the B-29: the ultimate passenger airliner was born. Now, with previously unpublished material and illustrations from the original Bristol Brabazon sales brochure, among other sources, the Brabazon's 1930s-style elegance is displayed once again, celebrating its design, construction and sheer luxury. A fitting outcome for such a paragon of post-war optimism and an aircraft still considered by many to be the foremost in propeller-driven civi

Read more less

Book SynopsisWelcome to the world of miniature aviation, intergalactic style. It’s entertainment on the fly for the office, backyard, classroom (don’t get caught!), or anywhere there might be a party, featuring 12 Lilliputian-size models that create 63 planes altogether. From the Dynamo to the Alien Clipper, Cosmojet to the Spectre, these intergalactic flyers are vibrantly colored and gorgeously designed to resemble various spacecraft. Fold up the straight-shooting Star Quest and an Aerobot that’s part spaceship, part robot. Includes step-by-step folding instructions and tips on how to send each plane soaring at its full aerodynamic potential.    

Read more less

Book SynopsisWelcome to the world of flying animals! It’s entertainment on the fly for the office, backyard, classroom (don’t get caught!), or anywhere there might be a party, featuring 12 Lilliputian-size models that create 69 planes altogether. From the Dragon to the Stingray, Beetlebot to the Beach Bomber, these flying creatures are vibrantly colored and gorgeously designed to resemble animals that fly, both real and imaginary. Fold up an antennaed Scarab and the sharklike Predator. Includes step-by-step folding instructions and tips on how to send each plane soaring at its full aerodynamic potential.    

Read more less

Book SynopsisIf ever a man has earned his place in the annals of military history, that man is Francis Gabby Gabreski. His exploits as a fighter pilot in World War II and Korea are legendary; his rise from humble beginnings to success in military and business careers is inspiring. This is the full story of Gabby Gabreski, told in his own words. Gabreski's life is a classic American success story. Born to Polish immigrant parents in 1919, he nearly washed out of Notre Dame and then flight school. He was down to his last chance, and he made the most of it. A witness to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Gabby had his own first taste of air combat flying with a Polish RAF squadron. Shortly thereafter he joined the 56th Fighter Group of the U.S. 8th Air Force, and in seventeen months he shot down twenty-eight German planes, the highest total of any 8th Air Force pilot in Europe. He became a hero whose name was splashed across newspaper headlines from coast to coast. And then, on the very day he was t

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisShowcasing some of the most recognized and dynamic examples of aviation art ever produced, the paintings here appeared on model airplane kit boxes. Generations of hobbyists have enjoyed these colorful and inspiring paintings that graced model packaging in hobby shops. More than 170 of the most memorable examples are displayed in full color. They chronicle aviation history from the Wright Brothers'' Kitty Hawk Flier to the Apollo Lunar Module, including many of the best-known aircraft in aviation history. Among the many artists whose works are portrayed are Tom Morgan, John Steel, Jack Leynnwood, Lorenzo Ghiglieri, Jim Cox, John Amendola, Ray Gaedke, Jo Kotula, and Dick Locher. In the well-researched text, these artists tell personal stories behind their art in their own words. This book will be treasured by aviation enthusiasts, model builders, and everyone who has fond memories of their model building days.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book describes in superb pictures and text the fascinating genre of tilt rotor airplanes. Since the first helicopters flew, attempts have been made to create a link between the mobility of the rotorcraft and the speed of the winged airplane. At first these attempts failed simply because of constructive difficulties, since the technology had not advanced far enough. The progressive development, though, created in the past decades new possibilities, and thus led to the V-22 Osprey, which has meanwhile been produced in series and is used by the U.S. forces. A civilian model, the Bell/Agusta BA 209, will soon be introduced commercially.Trade Review'The first thing to say about this book is that it isn't just about tilt rotors past and present but also covers the equally long history of the tilt-wing aircraft, of which there were many and varied but which in the end has not yet found favour. The main thrust of this book however covers the series of military projects funded in the United States after 1945, commencing with the Transcendendental 1-G which is recognised as the first successful tiltrotor and continuing with the Bell XV-3 and a number of much larger and unsung tiltwing and tiltrotor aircraft that eventually led to the U.S. military selecting the now in-service Bell Boeing V-22. The final pages give a glimpse into the future at the time of writing, but already perhaps being overtaken by events. If you are interested in tiltwing and tiltrotor history, this is a fascinating reference that you will undoubtedly want to delve into time and time agian.' - Helicopter International

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisStoried pilot Homer Stockert, born in Churubusco, Indiana, won air races in Fort Wayne in the 1920s, earning him legendary fame while only in his twenties. In 1933, he established the Stockert Flying Service at Bendix Field, South Bend, Indiana, an airport built by entrepreneur Vincent Bendix. After serving as a test pilot of the P-47 Thunderbolt fighter aircraft in Evansville, Indiana, during World War II, Stockert returned to Bendix Field to expand his flying service with his business-savvy wife, Dora. Stockert led a successful life of leadership in private aviation until his death in 1971.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThis attractive book is described appropriately as a visual celebration of the variety of the worlds light aircraft. This book is, maybe, a starting point for potential builders or owners to help broaden their horizon and identify what appeals, before seeking more detailed sources for essential data. In parallel with builders and owners, there exists a very large train of enthusiasts who simply enjoy viewing and watching. Above all this is a book for all who take pleasure in the lighter and gentler side of powered, fixed-wing aviation.! - Chris Wright CEng MRAeS, AEROSPACE MAGAZINE August 2016What a magnificent book! I noticed that the bibliography includes William Green's Aircraft of The World, a copy of which has been the key foundation of my aircraft reference library since 1965. I am proud to place my copy of Classic Light Aircraft on the shelf right next to it. (It is) an authoritative, faithfully-accurate work that is at the same time visually attractive! Jeff Jacobs, Cessna 172 ClubRon Smith has been beavering away at this book for several years and civil aircraft enthusiasts will find it a hugely valuable quick reference guide to the myriad of light aircraft flying all over the world. It is arranged alphabetically by manufacturer and every entry consists of a photo, most being in colour and photographed by the author, and a short extended caption. Aircraft types covered include all the main production models together with a good selection of the more common homebuilts, light sport types and a selection of antiques. The largest types covered are the King Air and Dove - no business jets here. The necessary brevity of the text means some facts are left out - for instance, the only Cirrus mentioned is the SR22 - and the index only refers to the manufacturers and does not allow reference by aircraft name. Having said that, this is a book which will prove very useful all who attend civil fly-ins and events. - Rod Simpson, Aviation World, Autumn 2015.'Xtended', Europe's premier aerospace internet radio programme, interviewed Ron Smith about general aviation, along with the publication of his new book Classic Light Aircraft Xtended say: "We really enjoyed the book and hope we have helped promote a positive image of it!"Light aircraft do not get much attention from today's mainstream publishers, presumably because there is more demand for military subjects, so it is refreshing to see this new, comprehensive hardback which claims to be An illustrated look, 1920s to the present'. Almost all the images are in colour with a handful of monochrome illustrations, and since most are from the author's collection few will have been seen before. His name may be familiar to readers from the very useful five-volume history 'British-Built Aircraft', and he is an aeronautical engineer, historian and private pilot, so is well qualified to write on this subject. - Mike HooksAnother excellent book from the pen of VAC member Ron Smith on a subject which he is indeed an expert. This book provides an extensive photographic record in alphabetical order by manufacturer of what are considered to be classic light or general aviation aircraft from the 1920s to the present day. To underline the selected time period the range of dates of the photographs compliment diverse dates during the period. The standard both of the photography and the reproduction throughout the book is first rate. Where this book scores for the aviation enthusiast is in that it provides a guide to recognition of types and subtypes of the same marque. The captions to the photographs give, where appropriate details of these differences. This alone will mean that it will be in use as a constant work of reference. This book is a must for the aviation enthusiast is extremely good value for money. - Paul Loveday, Vintage & Classic magazinePersonally, I do not have an idea which percentage from the nowadays still flying types are enlisted in this book, but I think it is a high percentage. In some of them I have even co-piloted. For me, this book contains an enormous amount of splendid unknown but also known aircrafts. What do you think of a DH88 Comet or a DH89A Dragon Rapide or a Gee Bee? Who wouldnt want to fly in those?! The book has a pleasant size and lies well in the hand. The book is almost overloaded with pictures and is printed on good paper. Most of the pictures are in colour. When you see all those pictures it becomes clear to you how large this business worldwide is and was. All pictures are accompanied with a short informative text about the aircraft, not too detailed. Ron Smith has produced a beautiful book which is a must have for the General Aviation-freak with focus on the light aircrafts. Good to read and to page through, and blimey this book inspires so much to go flying! Aviation Book Reviews .comLAA member and pilot Ron Smiths latest book is a comprehensive encyclopaedia of light aircraft that might be seen today or in the past 30 years. Illustrated mostly by the authors own photos the book covers 800 types with photos and a small write-up with a little history and details of each. The book covers all of the major production aircraft of the last 30 or so years, plus a lot of the surviving vintage aircraft that might be seen in the UK, US or Australia. Also covered are most of the popular homebuilts from the UK and US together with a few from France and other countries. Some of the more modern European Ultralights/Light Sport aircraft are also included. A great reference guide for anyone wondering what that aircraft they just saw at the local airfield, or fly in was and also a handy guide to anyone to see what aircraft are out there, that they might be interested to fly or buy. - LAA Magazine book reviewThe author knows his stuff and, rather like Eddie Riding, seems to have spent a lifetime wandering around airfields in this county and abroad, photographing every machine of interest and building up a terrific picture of the GA fleet as we know it in Britain, Europe and the USA. It's good to see not just the standard series production types, but typical mix of homebuilts, vintage aeroplanes and pensioned-off military stuff that you will find at most airfields in the UK. Ron has also done his research: as a dutiful reviewer, I picked on types and manufacturers I knew about and looked to see if he had included them: he'd not missed one! - RV March 2016 edition of Pilot Magazine.The author, Ron Smith, is a prolific writer of books on general aviation, covering both historical aspects and specific aircraft types. His previous books have demonstrated a useful knack of being able to cover a lot of ground with the minimum of effort, providing just enough information to keep the appetite whetted and no more. This quite hefty volume continues in the same vein, and so allows for over 800 aircraft types and manufacturers to be represented. The number of photographs is extraordinary, considering most of them were taken by the author. These are of excellent quality and, apart from one or two, in colour, mainly two to a page. I suspect most readers will check if any aircraft they have flown is pictured; I could not resist myself, and sure enough, there was a picture of a Piper Cub I spent many happy hours in, but, from the colour scheme, taken long before I became part-owner. From this, it was evident that Ron had started building his library of photographs a very long time ago. This is a wonderful book for anyone who enjoys and takes an interest in light aircraft, I thoroughly recommend it. - George Done April 2016LAA member and pilot Ron Smith's latest book is a comprehensive encyclopaedia of all of the major production light aircraft of the last 30 or so years, plus a lot of the surviving vintage aircraft that might be seen in the UK, US or Australia. The book is a great reference guide for anyone wondering just what was that aircraft they saw at the local airfield. It amazes me sometimes how little some pilots know about the variety of aircraft types they could fly and this book covers nearly all of them. Reading the book you really can discover what a wide range of light aircraft have been produced over the years. The aircraft are presented and indexed in alphabetic order by manufacturer so it is easy to look up your favourite types, or find out what that wonderplane really looks like. Overall then an excellent book and well worth the cover price, so I can thoroughly recommend it to LAA members keen to know more about the sheer variety of light aircraft that grace our skies. - Nigel Hitchman, Light Aviation Magazine March 2016I would have loved owning this book when I was a kid at the bottom of the learning curve. - Kristen Alexander, AeroAustralia Magazine July 2016

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the dawn of human flight to today, Seattle has hosted flying history from dirigibles and fabric biplanes to jumbo jets, from epic pioneering flights to innovative companies making world travel routine. This book recaptures that historical awe and connects it with a sense of place. These subjects may span decades of existence or represent a single day's events. Some are inspiring places of creativity and innovation, some are grim accident sites. All have some significance to the story of flight in the region. Do you know the exact spot of the first airplane flight in the area? How about where The Boeing Company began? Where did the top secret XB-29 prototype crash during its urgent WWII test program? Where did the first non-stop flight across the Pacific end? This book will answer those questions and many more as we dig into the aviation archaeology of the Jet City and its surroundings.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"We know Ron already from previous books: Cessna 172 and Classic Light Aircraft and now Ron Smith comes with this very beautiful book about the Cessna 300 and 400. That man must have an enormous database of pictures and Cessna knowledge! The book is simply built up with a part about the Cessna 300 and a part about the Cessna 400. It has a huge amount of pictures with short to the point texts about the development of all the types with their characteristics and other interesting details. The great thing about the book is that it has a kind of retro-design and that appeals to me a lot. For me it is a good book just to look in and read a bit of text here and there where the pictures attracts more of my attention. There are also two well formatted timelines in the book." - Rene Verjans, Aviationbookreviews.com. October 2017August 2017 - Author Ron Smith was interviewed at length for Xtended, Europe's premier aerospace internet radio programme.We can forgive anyone for not understanding the many varieties of light aircraft. With manufacturers changing the designations and specifications every year it can be very confusing, so Ron Smiths newly published book on the Cessna twins is extremely welcome. The book is liberally illustrated and includes very readable feedback from aircraft owners. Certainly a useful volume for the General Aviation enthusiast. - Aviation World Autumn 2017There is more in the book than simply how the type developed the summary of features on the 400 Series that aid identification is welcome. As someone previously engaged in aspects of aircraft design, I could not help wondering about the introduction of dihedral to the tailplane, and why it became necessary to raise it halfway up the fin, presumably something to do with improving an aspect of the flight handling quality. Also, I particularly enjoyed reading of the exploits, some very amusing, of an air taxi pilot in the Cessna 404 Titan. This book makes an excellent addition to ones aeronautical bookshelf, and I thoroughly recommend it. - George Done

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"This [is a] wonderful and well printed book... A kit section, hundreds of well printed photos (many from Boeing archives) and the beautiful profiles by Jennings Heilig complete a must have book" - Marco De Montis, October 2018

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Grumman J2F Duck formed the backbone of America's over water utility squadrons from 1934 until beyond WWII, setting various aviation records during this service. A single-engine amphibious aircraft (also produced by Columbia Aircraft), the Duck saw service with the US Navy, Marine Corps, Army Air Force, and Coast Guard in a variety of roles including, reconnaissance, air-sea rescue, scouting/observation, and more. This volume is profusely illustrated with scarce archival photographs from diverse collections, including previously unpublished images. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis first of two volumes presents the P-38 story by focusing on the early models of this historic fighterXP-38 through P-38H. Each type is examined through carefully researched archival photos, as well as photographs of currently preserved examples.Known to the enemy during World War IIas the Fork-tailed devil, the Lockheed P-38 Lightning was piloted by those who were charged with the responsibility of escorting American bombers deep over heavily defended Europe during the early years of the air campaign against Nazi Germany. Detailed text and captions illustrate not only the design and constructionof the early-war Lightnings, but also their combat use in WWII. Large, clear photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, put the reader on the airfield and in the sky with this historic aircraft.Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA unique insider look at the profound changes Boeing experienced in the 1960s as the product mix shifted from military hardware to the first generation of jet-powered airliners.Trade Reviewspan style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> "Together John Fredrickson and John Andrews have put together a fascinating account of Boeing's history with special focus on the dramatic changes necessary to produce the 747." -- New York Journal of Books

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn production for over 50 years, the 747 was the first large-capacity civilian airliner.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Legends of Flights Illustrated to the Douglas DC-3, the airliner from which the famous C-47 Skytrain military transport was derived.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisUsing a mix of quantitative evidence and qualitative studies of airlines from North America, Asia, Australia, and Europe. Up in the Air provides clear and realistic strategies for achieving a better, more equitable balance competing interests.Trade ReviewUp in the Air is a fascinating account of the airline industry and its evolution.... Flying is an integral part of today's world and the low-cost airline model has increased this exponentially. As such a significant piece of our infrastructure it is important that we have a well-developed understanding of the necessary underpinnings of this complex business model. The authors have added first, a balanced, historical perspective of the business development and employee relations within airlines. Second, they offer strategic thinking from their research, which allows for sound planning within contemporary expectations of stakeholders at all levels. Third, they offer solutions for the growth and development of sound employee relations. For the human resource professional there is much value within this work. It is airline specific yet most readers would have a broad understanding of the salient arguments. It has research outcomes and analysis which are transferable to the workplace and HR strategic thinking and planning. It contains valuable models and diagrams, is well annotated and referenced. While academic in style, it is an easy read and tightly structured. It is also well written and has a clear place in today’s employee relations literature. -- Geoff De Lacy * Asia Pacific Journal of Human Resources *Up in the Air tackles the complex external and internal environments of the world's airline industry. The authors are an impressive combination of Australian, European and U.S. employment relations scholars with significant research expertise in the airline industry.... This book is equally valuable in the classroom and the boardroom. The authors' use of a comparative industrial relations approach enriches one's understanding of the complex nature of employment relations. It would be lamentable not to recognize that this book's value extends far beyond airlines. The airline industry has a dynamic internal and external environment with employees spread around a nation or world; frontline employees make important decisions at any hour of the day or night. This book is instructive for successful employment relations strategy in a wide range of industries—particularly those with knowledge workers and/or dispersed frontline decision makers. -- E. Patrick McDermott * Journal of Industrial Relations *The book provides a detailed overview of the recent evolution and transformation of the U.S. civil aviation industry, especially the impact of low-cost competition and September 11, and it includes a penetrating analysis of the relative performance of different airlines. It pays adequate tribute to the importance of the old 'legacy' airlines in the industry, many of which have been national flag-carriers, though it pays particular attention to new entrants. Although the focus is on the US, the analysis is extended to other markets in Europe and Asia to produce a comprehensive account of competition, business strategies and human resource management in the world airline industry.... On the whole, the book is intellectually stimulating and a pleasure to read. It asks the right questions and combines thorough empirical research and informed analysis to answer them. The ideas, arguments and empirical analysis presented merit close attention and wide discussion. The authors even offer a road map to success for consumers, employees, and investors. While the book makes a significant contribution to the literature on human resource management and employment relations in the aviation industry, it is also useful as a starting point for future research. -- Stefan Zagelmeyer * Personnel Review *There is much to be appreciated about the contribution of Up in the Air that extends beyond the boundaries of the airline industry. The carefully explained lessons of the industry should be of interest to those in other industries where managers may believe that price competition necessitates 'bleak house' approaches to employment relations.... Overall what I most value about this book is its undeniable optimism and the pathway it describes to more sustainable employment relations strategies. This is not a naive optimism but is well-founded; securely anchored in insightful scholarly observations of what works in this fascinating industry. -- Peter Waring * Critical Perspectives on International Business *This refreshingly readable and persuasive book challenges the emerging orthodoxy that low-cost must mean low staff morale and low customer satisfaction. Drawing on examples from across the world, including 'legacy' airlines such as British Airways and new entrants such as Ryanair and easyJet, the authors analyse the competitive and employment-relations strategies that airlines have adopted. Outcomes for customers, employees, and other stakeholders are analysed. The authors categorise employment-relations strategies as either controlling employee behaviour, or aiming to foster commitment.... The authors suggest that the genuine partnerships should feature: joint commitment to the success of the enterprise; efforts to build trust; employment security in exchange for flexibility; quality training programmes; information sharing and joint problem solving with managers and employees. -- Jim McAuslan * The Log *What can airlines do in this new environment to overcome the obstacles and move toward sustainable profits? That is the subject of Up in the Air; to explain how the industry got to this point and what can be done to make it profitable. The central thesis, backed up with strong evidence, is that employee and customer satisfaction can coexist with increased revenue and profits.... Up in the Air uses statistics and anecdotes effectively. There are many tables and charts, but they are simple and usually easy to understand. There are also interviews with leading industry experts and company officials as well as stories of successes and failures.... This is an informative, balanced, well-researched, astute, and instructive treatise on the airline industry. The book is quite accessible to readers who are neither economists nor familiar with the industry. -- Carl Barsky * Monthly Labor Review *Table of ContentsPreface 1. Low-Cost Competition in the Airline Industry 2. Developments in the U.S. Airline Industry 3. Developments in the Airline Industry in Other Countries 4. Industry Trends in Costs, Productivity, Quality, and Morale 5. Alternative Strategies for New Entrants: Southwest vs. Ryanair 6. The Legacy Responses: Alternative Approaches 7. Building a More Balanced Airline Industry Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisWinner of the Eugene Emme Astronautical Literature Prize from the American Astronautical Society For eight days in October 1984, seven men and women orbitied the Earth on Space Shuttle Mission 41-G. The mission has begun a year earlier; however, with the select of its crew. Before Lift-off is the extraordinary day-to-day story of these astronauts' training and flight-and is as close as most of us will ever come to flying on the space shuttle. New Yorker writer Henry Cooper obtained unprecedented permission from NASA to follow the 41-G crew from its formation through the completion of its mission. He was even given access to the heart of the training program: the crew's sessions in the shuttle mision simulators. More than a chronical of different phases in the astronauts' learning process, Before Lift-off tells the story of the bonding of these men and women. It would be Captain Robert Crippen's fourth space flight, his second command in six months, and Sally Ride's second shuttle voyage. For rookies Davida Leestra, Jon McBride, and Kathy Sullivan, and for two payload specialists, the experience would mark an initiation into the most elite groups-those people who have ventured into space.Trade ReviewWritten in a journalistic style without scholarly apparatus, it is an excellent first person account of the 1984 mission of STS-41G -- Roger D. Launius Space Times 2006Table of ContentsList of IllustrationsForewordAcknowledgmentsPrologueChapter 1. October 4 and 5, 1984Chapter 2. November 1983 and EarlierChapter 3. Week of January 23-27, 1984Chapter 4. Week of February 27-March 2Chapter 5. Week of April 16-20Chapter 6. Week of June 11-15Chapter 7. Week of July 23-27Chapter 8. Week of September 3-7Chapter 9. Week of September 18-21Chapter 10. Fortnight of September 20-October 4Chapter 11. Week of October 5-13Chapter 12. October 13 and AfterwardEpilogueIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisBilstein goes on to describe NASA's recent planetary and extraplanetary exploration, as well as its less well-known research into the future of aeronautical design.Trade ReviewNo better introductory history of NACA and NASA exists. Choice 2003Table of ContentsContents: Preface Acknowledgments Abbreviations 1. Foundations for Flight, 1915-1930 2. Aeronautics in Peace and War, 1930-1945 3. Jets, Sonic Speed, and Satellites, 1945-1958 4. On the Fringes of Space, 1958-1964 5. Dress Rehearsals, 1964-1969 6. Aerospace Dividends, 1969-1973 7. International Ventures, 1973-1980 8. Aircraft and Aerospace Craft, 1980-1989 9. The Post-Challenger Years, 1989-1990's 10. Toward Century 21 11. Retrospect and Prospect Notes on Reading Chronology Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisDavid Lewis has written the definitive biography of America's ace of aces.Trade ReviewThis well-written and well-researched biography tells the life story of one of America's greatest, most widely-recognized, and controversial airmen. Skyways 2005 Mr. Lewis' research, 15 years of it, is meticulous, showing the beauty of how fact-based reality can top fiction for excitement, irony and tragedy. Mr. Lewis has painted a balanced, complete picture of an extremely complex man. It's obvious the author has a love for his subject, but this is not hagiography: All aspects of Rickenbacker's personality are laid on the table. Washington Times 2006 Lewis is comprehensive about his subject. Booklist 2005 A riveting read-certainly the best telling of the Rickenbacker story we are ever likely to have. Airways 2006 Makes for an avid story not just of Rickenbacker and his world, but of an evolving transportation industry. California Bookwatch 2006 Lewis provides readers with the definitive biography of this extraordinary man. Register of the Kentucky Historical Society 2005 This book will give a whole new generation of readers insights into a truly unique American character. The Western Front Association 2006 Lewis's intent is to replace Rickenbacker's self-promoting, ghost-written autobiographies with a reliable scholarly life. Journal of American History 2006 Lewis has given us an unabashedly individual and heroic story from the heart of our era's passion for motorized speed. Technology and Culture 2007 [Lewis] has compiled the definitive biography of Eddie Rickenbacker, an often forgotten American hero and entrepreneur. Exhaustively researched and well written, Lewis's study chronicles the life and achievements of Rickenbacker from his humble beginnings as the son of Swiss immigrants through his rise to heroic military veteran and founding father of American auto racing and airline travel. H-War, H-Net Reviews 2006Table of ContentsPrologue. A Boy and His Flying Machine1. Starting Line2. Ignition3. Acceleration4. Full Throttle5. Shifting Gears8. A Matter of Luck9. Climax10. Homecoming11. Domestic Front12. Frustrations13. Comeback14. Apex15. Pivot16. Call to Duty17. Pacific Mission18. New Mandate19. Anticipating Victory20. Turbulence and Descent21. End GameEpilogue. In the ArenaAcknoldgmentsNotesEssay on Primary SourcesIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisDavid Lewis has written the definitive biography of America's ace of aces.Trade ReviewThis well-written and well-researched biography tells the life story of one of America's greatest, most widely-recognized, and controversial airmen. Skyways 2005 Mr. Lewis' research, 15 years of it, is meticulous, showing the beauty of how fact-based reality can top fiction for excitement, irony and tragedy. Mr. Lewis has painted a balanced, complete picture of an extremely complex man. It's obvious the author has a love for his subject, but this is not hagiography: All aspects of Rickenbacker's personality are laid on the table. Washington Times 2006 Lewis is comprehensive about his subject. Booklist 2005 A riveting read-certainly the best telling of the Rickenbacker story we are ever likely to have. Airways 2006 Makes for an avid story not just of Rickenbacker and his world, but of an evolving transportation industry. California Bookwatch 2006 Lewis provides readers with the definitive biography of this extraordinary man. Register of the Kentucky Historical Society 2005 This book will give a whole new generation of readers insights into a truly unique American character. The Western Front Association 2006 Lewis's intent is to replace Rickenbacker's self-promoting, ghost-written autobiographies with a reliable scholarly life. Journal of American History 2006 Lewis has given us an unabashedly individual and heroic story from the heart of our era's passion for motorized speed. Technology and Culture 2007 [Lewis] has compiled the definitive biography of Eddie Rickenbacker, an often forgotten American hero and entrepreneur. Exhaustively researched and well written, Lewis's study chronicles the life and achievements of Rickenbacker from his humble beginnings as the son of Swiss immigrants through his rise to heroic military veteran and founding father of American auto racing and airline travel. H-War, H-Net Reviews 2006Table of ContentsPrologue. A Boy and His Flying Machine1. Starting Line2. Ignition3. Acceleration4. Full Throttle5. Shifting Gears8. A Matter of Luck9. Climax10. Homecoming11. Domestic Front12. Frustrations13. Comeback14. Apex15. Pivot16. Call to Duty17. Pacific Mission18. New Mandate19. Anticipating Victory20. Turbulence and Descent21. End GameEpilogue. In the ArenaAcknoldgmentsNotesEssay on Primary SourcesIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisAirplanes shows how the solutions to these riddles have helped spur dramatic changes in the world's social and cultural life.Trade ReviewThe author manages to do an impressive job of thoroughly discussing the details and specifics of the way that airplane technology improved and the political movements, world events, and social change that brought about these improvements. The introduction also offers an excellent overview of the physics of flight and the time line of the evolution of the airplane. Choice 2007Table of ContentsPrefaceIntroduction: Higher, Faster, and FartherTimeline1. The Origins of Powered Flight, 1783–19142. The First War in the Air, 1914–19183. The Aeronautical Revolution, 1918–19384. World War II in the Air, 1939–19455. The Second Aeronautical Revolution, 1930–Present6. The Jet Airplane as a Military Weapon, 1945–Present7. The Commercial Airplane, 1945–Present8. General Aviation, 1920–PresentConclusion: Higher, Ever HigherGlossarySelected BibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisCrouch, Lighter Than Air brings to life the color and excitement of buoyant flight.Trade ReviewThis copiously illustrated overview of lighter than air aviation chronicles an adventurous period in human accomplishment with style and insight... A fascinating account of the thrilling quest for human flight. Literary Features Syndicate Crouch is one of the most knowledgeable authorities on the history of flight today. In his latest book, Crouch slices off a portion of that history and presents it in accessible fashion in a lushly illustrated volume. History Wire - Where the Past Comes Alive Accompanied by beautiful illustrations, prints and photographs, the text of Lighter Than Air is easily acccessible and informative...The fascinating world of air travel comes to life with this entertaining and well-researched book. Deseret News

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Jack El-Hai faithfully propels us through the history of a company we all took for granted. From rickety planes delivering mail to one of the largest and most respected airlines in the world, El-Hai lays it out through the highs and lows. At the beginning, heroic pilots and primitive gear, all the way to D.B. Cooper and the Underwear Bomber, the intriguing leadership and crafty politicians, to the final day when the lights went out at Northwest Airlines—all here presented in masterful style." —Don Shelby"[El-Hai’s] book is a concise record of aviation’s race to zoom further, faster, and ever more fashionably through the 20th century." —Wall Street Journal"El-Hai’s narrative captures the pivotal business and political moves that allowed Northwest to grow, while also spotlighting the characters and trends of the airline’s history." —Star Tribune"Non-Stop is not just a history of a particular airline, it is an examination of the whole airline industry. It’s a must for aviation buffs everywhere." —Chicago Tribune"Jack El-Hai’s new book, Non-Stop: A Turbulent History of Northwest Airlines, is a bright chronicle of one of the nation’s legacy airlines. Full of mid-century cool, this book soars along on a powerful slipstream of nostalgia." —NewsweekTable of ContentsContentsPreface1. The Romance of Aviation, the Perils of a BusinessBrittin’s BrainsAirmail FolliesPioneering PassengersLindbergh Brings His Lucky Name2. No Runways, No ProblemThe Mystique of PilotsBrittin’s “Right-Hand Man”The Tragedy of SpeedThe Marco Polo of AviationBalancing a Tray on a Turbulent Flight3. Pulled into the Modern AgeSecurity before TerrorismIsland of Quonset HutsEscape from ShanghaiClothing That Wears like Iron4. Lithe Man with a Bright SmileA New Theater of WarThe Pudgy Plane That CouldThe Tale of a SwordStormy Weather5. Adventures in Scale and EfficiencyHot Meals and Cold MartinisThe Red TailTake Me to Cuba6. Planes Longer Than the Flight at Kitty HawkThe Air PirateA Rattler of a CEOAirlifting Propeller Shafts and Silkworms7. One Whammy after AnotherChance Favors the Prepared MindThe Wondrous Flight of Herman the Goose“I Will Always Remember That You Were the First”The End of LivesSoaring Eagle8. The Decade That Lasted a LifetimeLike It or Not, the Face of NorthwestDeaths in the FamilyBreaking to a Halt9. Broke and Vanishing FastMechanical Derring-doThe Underwear BomberLights OutThe History of Northwest Airlines Acknowledgments and SourcesIllustration CreditsIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisA fascinating window into Wilbur and Orville Wright‘s legendary Wright Company, its place in Dayton, its management struggles, and its effects on early U.S. aviation.Trade Review“[Roach] closes a major gap in our understanding of the brothers, drawing on an untapped cache of corporate records and the scattered papers of business associates to produce a history of the Wright Company set in the larger context of American business, labor, urban, and industrial history. His book is a fresh, honest, and well-researched view of Wilbur and Orville’s experience as the president and vice president of the Wright Company, respectively, detailing the rise and fall of a firm that in different hands might have dominated an infant industry.” * Business History Review *“The Wrights were excellent self-taught engineers who achieved success through a process more akin to tinkering than systematic research and development. They were poor businessmen, however, as this fine discussion of their stint as ‘captains of industry’ illustrates.” * American Historical Review *“Roach has produced what will become the standard work on the subject, and The Wright Company deepens our understanding of early American aviation history in several valuable ways. …General readers interested in these aspects of twentieth-century transport and aviation history will benefit from reading Roach’s work, as will specialists.” * Journal of Transport History *“The book explores the one area of the career of the Wright brothers that remains least well known. It casts new light on the business career of the Wright brothers, and on the history of the Wright Company and the men who led it.… Taken as a whole, the book offers a concise and readable history of an important topic that has received all too little attention.”“As a specialist in the history of flight for over the past 30 years, I thought I had encountered everything there was to know about the Wright Brothers and their essential role in the birth and development of the airplane and the American aircraft industry. I was wrong. Edward J. Roach’s new book fills in many gaps in the story where none of us knew there even were gaps. This new study is a major contribution to aviation historiography.”“A well-researched and fascinating look into an often forgotten chapter in aviation history…. This detailed biographical, corporate, and industrial history is nicely illustrated with historical photos and advertisements.” * Library Journal *“Roach’s study digs deeper than technological and business history. By casting his narrative in an urban historical context and painting the sociocultural elements that affected the business, the author contributes to a clearer understanding of how seemingly unrelated elements affected the development of the Wright aircraft business.” * The Historian *“Roach’s chronicle of the birth, growth, and subsequent marginalization of the Wright Company adds a new and critical piece to the story of America's most famous sibling inventors. Recommended.” * Choice *“Edward Roach’s work The Wright Company: From Invention to Industry examines one of the least studied time periods in the brothers’ careers. Wilbur and Orville may have been brilliant intuitive engineers, but they were not brilliant intuitive entrepreneurs. Their inexperience with the world of big business, plus their energy-draining defense of their patent, left them behind as others pioneered the aircraft industry. This book is a valuable addition to the literature on the Wright brothers and the early history of the aircraft industry in the United States.”“The Wright Company: From Invention to Industry provides an in-depth look at the character and disposition of Wilbur and Orville Wright and the impact their lack of business acumen had on their company and the industry they were a part of. The Wright Company story leads to a better understanding of the larger emerging aviation industry of the early twentieth century.”Table of Contents* List of Illustrations * Preface * Acknowledgments * Introduction * One: "We Will Devote...Our Time to Experimental Work" Creating the Wright Company * Two: Bringing an Aeroplane Factory to Dayton * Three: "A Substantial, Commodious, Thoroughly Modern Factory" The Wright Company Enters the Market * Four: "Our Machines Are Sold on Their Merits" Patents, Profits, and Controversy * Five: World Records for Wright Aviators The Exhibition Department * Six: To Change or Not to Change Creating New Airplanes and New Pilots * Seven: Turning Buyer Attention the Company Way Advertising * Eight: Managing the Wrights' Company * Nine: "It Is Something I Have Wanted to Do for Many Months" Exit Orville * EpilogueThe Wright Company's Legacy * Notes * Bibliography * Index

Read more less