Aircraft and aviation Books

Book SynopsisThe wonder of flight has long captured the human imagination. In this beguiling history – ranging from the first aircraft to astronauts and beyond – David Darling tells the stories of the true life adventurers whose wonder has translated into bizarre contraptions, magnificent achievements and, sometimes, startling folly. Discover outrageous attempts to fly like a bird and fall from the edge of space. Meet Napoleonic ballooniste Sophie Blanchard and her daredevil husband; the real “X-Men” who flew the supersonic experimental “X-planes” for the US Air Force; stuntman Lincoln Beachey, looping-the-loop in a pinstripe suit; and, of course, The Rocket Man himself: Yves Rossy, who in 2006 was the first person to cross the English Channel using a jet-pack. Eccentric and reckless, Darling’s daring cast of dreamers is guaranteed to entertain and inspire.Trade Review“A consummate collection of tales of the fearless and the feckless. Darling treats his subject with an authority tempered by the gentle humour that is the mark of a great story-teller.” -- Justin Pollard, author of The Interesting Bits: The History You Might Have Missed‘David Darling has cleverly avoided wheeling out all the old familiar names… a rollicking, rip-roaring tale. 4 stars.’ * Popular Science *“Gripping… dazzling tales of madness and derring do.” -- Brian Clegg, author of Inflight Science“A hugely enjoyable roller-coaster aerial ride in the company of oddballs and heroes, complete with vertiginous frights, dances of death, lonely impulses of delight and acts of mindless masochism in the name of science.” -- Jonathan Glancey, author of Spitfire: The Biography"Gripping... dazzling tales of madness and derring-do." * Brian Clegg, author of Inflight Science *"A hugely enjoyable roller-coaster aerial ride in the company of oddballs and heroes, complete with acts of mindless msochism in the name of science." * Jonathan Clancy, author of Spitfire: The Biography *“Impressive.” * Wall Street Journal *“A mix of good old-fashioned silliness and some fine science writing.” * BBC Focus *

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Book SynopsisIn a world without aircraft, to believe flight might be possible required a certain kind of character. You had to be starry-eyed, a possessor of practical ingenuity, nerves of steel and a level of sanity that would be best described as deficient. In Mayday!, David Darling tells the stories of the unconventional aviators across history who have been willing to risk all to further their craft. Meet Sophie Blanchard, a balloonist of nervous disposition whom Napoleon charged with organizing balloon displays at all major ceremonies in France. Then there’s the daredevil stuntman Lincoln Beachey, the dogfighter aces of WWI, the man who performed the dance of death – switching planes in mid-air, the real “X-Men” who flew at the edge of space, and the BASE jumpers who want to fly without wings. The cast are eccentric, reckless and extraordinary, and Mayday! is made up of their riveting tales, bizarre contraptions, magnificent achievements and, sometimes, startling folly.Trade Review“A consummate collection of tales of the fearless and the feckless. Darling treats his subject with an authority tempered by the gentle humour that is the mark of a great story-teller.” -- Justin Pollard, author of The Interesting Bits: The History You Might Have Missed‘David Darling has cleverly avoided wheeling out all the old familiar names… a rollicking, rip-roaring tale. 4 stars.’ * Popular Science *“Gripping… dazzling tales of madness and derring do.” -- Brian Clegg, author of Inflight Science“A hugely enjoyable roller-coaster aerial ride in the company of oddballs and heroes, complete with vertiginous frights, dances of death, lonely impulses of delight and acts of mindless masochism in the name of science.” -- Jonathan Glancey, author of Spitfire: The Biography'Intriguing and entertaining'. * Daily Mail *“Impressive.” * Wall Street Journal *“A mix of good old-fashioned silliness and some fine science writing.” * BBC Focus *

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Book SynopsisHandley Page began manufacturing aeroplanes in a small factory in Barking, Essex in 1909. Handley Page Limited was founded by Frederick Handley Page (later Sir Frederick) as the United Kingdom's first publicly traded aircraft manufacturing company. Sir Frederick declined to allow his company to be merged into the two large 'forced marriages' of aircraft manufacturing companies in the 1960s. It failed to survive alone, and went into voluntary liquidation and ceased to exist in 1970. During the First World War Handley Page produced a series of heavy bombers for the Royal Navy to bomb the German Zeppelin yards, with the ultimate intent of bombing Berlin in revenge for the Zeppelin attacks on London. Handley Page had been asked by the Admiralty to produce a "bloody paralyser of an aeroplane". These aircraft included the O/100 of 1915, the O/400 of 1918 and the four-engined V/1500 with the range to reach Berlin. The V/1500 only just reached operational service as the war ended in 1918. The real success of the Company came during the Second World War with the magnificent and robust Halifax bomber. In all, more than 6,000 of them were produced, or more than 40 per cent of Britain's total heavy-bomber power. In the bombing operations alone, approximately 76,000 sorties were flown and nearly a quarter of a million tons of bombs were dropped on to enemy targets. Bomber Command had no less than seventy-six Halifax squadrons in action at the time of its peak strength.

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Book SynopsisIn 1915, the biggest plane yet seen in Britain took flight, a twin-engine monster with a 100-foot wingspan. Handley Page bombers attacked German cities, disrupting the enemy's industry and crippling its war effort. The men that flew in the 'Bloody Paralysers' were the forerunners of Bomber Command in World War 2 and their story is told in their own words.

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Book SynopsisThe Coupe d'Aviation Maritime Jacques Schneider (commonly called the Schneider Trophy, or prize or cup) was a prize competition for seaplanes. Announced by Jacques Schneider, a financier, balloonist and aircraft enthusiast, in 1911, it offered a prize of roughly GBP1,000. The race was held eleven times between 1913 and 1931. It was meant to encourage technical advances in civil aviation but became a contest for pure speed with laps over a triangular course (initially 280 km, later 350 km). The races were very popular and some attracted crowds of over 200,000 spectators. Since 1977 the trophy has been on display at the Science Museum in London. The race was very significant in advancing aeroplane design, particularly in the fields of aerodynamics and engine design, and would show its results in the best fighters of WW2. The streamlined shape and the low drag, liquid-cooled engine pioneered by Schneider Trophy designs are obvious in the British Supermarine Spitfire, the American P-51 Mustang, and the Italian Macchi C.202 Folgore. This book is a history of the 100+ different aircraft types designed to contest for the Schneider Trophy from its inception in 1912 through to the final post-script in 1934. The narrative covers the political dynamics of the contests, the rivalries and the partnerships that led to the development of these aircraft. Each aircraft and engine is described along with the story of their construction and testing. The core of the book is a set of detailed 1:72 scale 3-view drawings and photographs from the author's personal collection, most of which have not been published previously. The text and drawings draw upon the author's comprehensive library of drawings, photographs, blueprints, reports, books and magazines on the subject and contain much new information. The majority of these aircraft, including some of the better known types, have been served poorly in the past in terms of availability of drawings. The book will appeal both to readers with a casual interest in the Schneider Trophy and to those seeking a comprehensive source of information on the subject. It will be of particular use to aircraft modellers. At present there are no books in print on the subject of the Schneider Trophy, the most recent in English was published in 2000. The majority of the more recent books date from 1981, the 50th anniversary of the final contest.

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Book SynopsisBritish Aircraft Manufacturers since 1909 traces one hundred years of the British aviation industry, its history, origins, mergers and takeovers. It details the evolution of the British aviation industry and is an epitaph to household famous names such as Armstrong-Whitworth, de Havilland, Chadwick, Claude-Graham White, Sopwith, A. V. Roe, Mitchell, Hawker, Handley Page, Petter and Fairey to name but a few. Of more recent times, the likes of Sidney Camm, Hooker and Hooper, all of whom, made VTOL more than just a dream, are also covered in astonishing and exhausting detail. Of the major firms, most at some time or other have been absorbed, merged or reorganised to form a single conglomerate, BAe Systems and Rolls-Royce are chronicled from the outset to the mighty companies they are today. Only PBN-Britten Norman - who on several occasions escaped extinction due to financial difficulties - and Westland, now part of AgustaWestland, and Short Bros of Northern Ireland remain independent, although even the latter, are part of Canadian, Bombardier Co. British Aircraft Manufacturers since 1909 tells the complete and enthralling story of how Britain ruled the world in terms of manufacturing and aircraft design from nimble but fragile biplanes and majestic airliners that united the world to the advanced bombers and fighters of today.

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Book SynopsisThis is the story of Kent's Garden Airfield, so called because of its location on an escarpment, overlooking Hythe and Romney Marsh. An airfield born out of necessity during the First World War. Following 1918 many record breaking flights began at Lympne. During the 1920's and 1930's, a time which saw the expansion of the RAF, civilian and RAF units shared the airfield and its facilities. Imperial Airways and other civilian airlines, often used the airfield, being on route to France. At the same time the Cinque Ports Flying Club was founded, many air races and flying displays took place. With the declaration of the Second World War on 3 Sptember 1939, it was realised that it was the ideal location for the RAF, being close to the coast. Lympne was host to many RAF units and squadrons during the war. When peace came private flying returned and later airlines such as Silver City and Skways operated their services to Europe. Flying continued into the early 1970's, but following closure, the airfield was developed and industrial units constructed, little remains today of this once important airfield.

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Book SynopsisNumerous books have been written on airships, but few concentrate on the bases and infrastructure which supported their operations. British Airship Bases of the Twentieth Century documents the development of airship facilities, beginning with their primitive arrangement prior to the First World War. The outbreak of hostilities in 1914 resulted in the adoption of airships for military purposes: ambitious bases and mooring-out stations were established across Britain, operated chiefly by the Royal Naval Air Service for the protection of shipping against U-boats. Finally, Malcolm Fife also relates the aeronautical developments, airship accidents, and post-war vacuum which led to the closure and dismemberment of most British bases. In the 1920s, the Government tried to refashion these giants of the sky into a means of transport, to link together the far-flung regions of the Empire-a scheme that never came to fruition. This did not, however, bring an end to their fascination for certain private enthusiasts or communities marked by this industry.This is an enthralling chronicle of the birth and transitions of airships and their bases, from an experimental, to military, to commercial, to private purpose. The construction, accommodation, and individual service history of each airship station are researched and described in detail, as well as proposed passenger terminals overseas. Malcolm Fife pays equal attention to the attempts to revive the airship in the closing decade of the twentieth century, and the locations associated with them. This is a beautifully illustrated, informative, and moving read, essential to an understanding of Britain's aeronautical history.

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Book SynopsisMuch of the fascination which Soviet aircraft and its associated aerospace industry holds for the analyst, enthusiast or ordinary member of the public, stems from the thick fog of secrecy that enveloped the industry throughout the 'Cold War' until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1990/91. Until then details which in case of Western designs could be found from the nearest reference book was in the case of Russian aircraft often a matter of conjecture and an inaccurate article written by a western journalist. This author has been fortunate to have obtained much original and previously unpublished information from the former Soviet Union for this unique volume on the history of the Soviet Aircraft Industry Since 1909. It gives the reader a clear understanding of the unique characteristics of Soviet-designed aircraft, in particular military types that at times caused great concern in the West with regards to the technical advances inherent in their design. The book is as much a history of the USSR as it is its, aerospace industry, culminating as it does with President Putin's Russian Federation.

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Book SynopsisThe Tornado F2 had a troubled introduction to service. Unloved by its crews and procured as a political imperative, it was blighted by failures and was developed to counter a threat that disappeared. Modified rapidly before it could be sent to war, the Tornado F3 eventually matured into a capable weapons system, but despite datalinks and new air-to-air weapons, its poor reputation sealed its fate. The author, a former Tornado F3 navigator, tells the story from an insider's perspective from the early days as one of the first instructors on the Operational Conversion Unit, through its development and operational testing, to its demise. David Gledhill reflects on its capabilities and deficiencies and analyses why the aircraft was mostly underestimated by opponents. Although many books have already described the Tornado F3, the author's involvement in its development will provide a unique insight into this complex and misunderstood aircraft programme and dispel some of the myths surrounding it.

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Book SynopsisThe de Havilland Aircraft Co opened an aerodrome in 1930 on farmland that it acquired outside Hatfield. The company's School of Flying was the first operation to take up residence. Flying clubs moved in and recreational facilities were developed. Garden parties, aerobatic displays and national air races were hosted. Regular visitors included famous flyers, royalty and aristocracy, actors and actresses, politicians, senior military ranks and representatives from Britain's other great aircraft manufacturers. Throughout 1934, new buildings were constructed to house de Havilland's global headquarters, factory production and Aeronautical Technical School. The victory of the sleek, red Comet in the England-Australia air race would have lasting significance for the town. The legendary Tiger Moth and iconic airliners such as the Dragon Rapide came off the production lines. Increasing numbers of RAF pilots were trained by the School of Flying while the garden parties, flying displays and air races continued. Military aircraft contracts were getting larger as long shadows from Europe reached the town.

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Book SynopsisThe Boulton Paul Balliol was the last British aircraft powered by the iconic Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, and the last piston-powered advanced trainer in both the Royal Air Force and the Fleet Air Arm. Yet it began life as the world's first turbo-trainer, conceived in the last days of the Second World War, and became the first aircraft with a single prop-jet, beating the rival Avro Athena into the air by two weeks. However, policy changed and it was with the trusty Merlin that the Balliol ultimately went into production. Boulton Paul Aircraft hoped for huge orders-opening a second production line at Blackburn Aircraft in anticipation-but the RAF decided to switch to all-jet training; even though a dozen were sold to the Royal Ceylon Air Force, total Balliol production only ever amounted to just over 200 examples. Consigned to another footnote in aviation history, this was the last aircraft Boulton Paul-already world-leaders in the manufacture of power controls- would ever build. The Boulton Paul Balliol: The Last Merlin-Powered Aircraft is a detailed account of the journey of this aeroplane and its creators, and the shifting sands within the highly competitive post-war aeronautics industry. This is a beautifully illustrated insight into how a small, pioneering British manufacturer dealt with the fluctuating demands of its era, enhanced by the author's own story as a Boulton Paul enthusiast and restorer.

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Book SynopsisThis remarkable book pictures the growth of British civil air transport from its inception in 1910 through to the formation of Imperial Airways in 1934 and then the beginnings of British Overseas Airways Corporation. The author shows the impetus given to aircraft production by the First World War, and presents a careful account of the operational and financial fortunes of each of the four principal British airlines which began operations shortly thereafter. The fight against official apathy and lack of foresight on the part of the government, the campaign for subsidies and the struggle with foreign competition are interestingly presented.The development of the chosen-instrument concept in Great Britain is interestingly covered and the use of subsidies in this connection justified in order to place civil aviation on a firm financial base for the establishment of a great British airline to serve the Empire. The result was Imperial Airways, which soon found itself in the awkward position of being expected to be both a successful commercial company and the chosen instrument of imperial policy.The final emergence of British Overseas Airways was the result, and its organization marks the close of the period covered in this volume. Included in the book are comprehensive statistical appendices and a complete bibliography.

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Book SynopsisAt the end of 1912 Jacques Schneider announced his intention of presenting an annual trophy for an international seaplane contest. There were only twelve Schneider contests but they were major international events with the major rivals being Britain and Italy, followed by France and the US. Biplane seaplanes and flying-boats predominated the early contests and some very advanced twin-float biplanes were among the winners as late as 1925. However, it was the monoplane which was to become the symbol of Schneider Trophy, with Supermarine and Macchi designs reaching the peak of racing seaplane performance. The final winning combination of Supermarine airframe and Rolls-Royce engine was to make a vital contribution to Britain's defence in 1940 in the form of the Rolls-Royce powered Hurricane and Spitfire. This book records the contests and, in considerable detail, the design, development and achievements of the participating aircraft; those which failed to take part; and the projects, some of which embodied very advanced ideas even if they were proved to be unrealistic.

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Book SynopsisHoward Hughes, the movie mogul, aviation pioneer and political hound dog, has always fascinated the public with his mixture of secrecy, dashing lifestyle and reclusiveness. Companies responsible for major technological leaps often become household names. An exception is Howard Hughes's pioneering helicopter company, Hughes Helicopters, a name that has fallen into oblivion. Yet most schoolboys in the world have heard of the company's prize-winning product: the Apache helicopter. Hughes popularised the light helicopter trainer, mass-produced the first turbine-powered light observation helicopter, led the way in hot cycle rotorcraft propulsion research and, finally, developed the world's most advanced attack helicopter that was purchased and saw service with the UK. Here's how some of the world's most innovative helicopters were developed. Covering the period from the Second World War until the mid-1980s, you will learn why Hughes military aircraft contracts came under close scrutiny by the US government. The story is rich with tales of technological breakthrough and test-flying bravado made possible by a small crew of engineers and daring pilots.Written by a technical expert and insider to the industry, Howard's Whirlybirds: Howard Hughes' Amazing Pioneering Helicopter Exploits is a fascinating and alternative view on the phenomenal pioneer with unpublished photographs and material that will fascinate the aviation and military historian as well as the casual reader and cinema buff.

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Book SynopsisA Flying Life: An Enthusiast's Photographic Record of British Aviation in the 1930s consists of photographs taken by E. J. Riding, the author's father, who spent his working life in the aviation industry. He was apprenticed to A. V. Roe & Company and employed as an aircraft engineer up to the outbreak of war. During the war, Riding became an AID inspector and was seconded to Fairey Aviation, London Aircraft Production, and the de Havilland Aircraft Company, where he signed out Halifax bombers and Mosquitoes as airworthy and ready for test flying. Sadly, Riding was killed in a flying accident in 1950. During his short life, he gained a lasting reputation as an engineer, professional photographer, draughtsman, and aero modeller. Riding began taking photographs of aircraft in 1931, aged fifteen. Fortunately, he kept copious notes recording the locations and dates of when and where the aircraft were photographed. More importantly, he noted aircraft colour schemes - details rarely recorded by the press at the time. The range of aircraft types photographed by Riding includes Tiger Moths, RAF fighters, ultralights, and airliners.Together they give an extensive cross-section of flying in Britain up to the outbreak of the Second World War. The photographs are of excellent quality and taken from a variety of angles - they are not all of the sterile bog-standard side view. Many depict aircraft being stripped for maintenance and servicing, while others show aircraft dumped or having crashed. Although approached in a generally light-hearted manner, A Flying Life features in-depth and informative captions.

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Book SynopsisThe Panavia Tornado was designed as a multi-role combat aircraft to meet the needs of Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom. Since the prototype flew in 1974, nearly 1000 Tornados have been produced in a number of variants serving as a fighter-bomber, a fighter and in the reconnaissance and electronic suppression roles. Deployed operationally in numerous theatres throughout the world, the Tornado has proved to be exceptionally capable and flexible. From its early Cold War roles it adapted to the rigours of expeditionary warfare from The Gulf to Kosovo to Afghanistan. The early "dumb" bombs were replaced by laser-guided weapons and cruise missiles and in the air-to-air arena fitted with the AMRAAM and ASRAAM missiles.In this book David Gledhill explores the range of capabilities and, having flown the Tornado F2 and F3 Air Defence Variant, offers an insight into life in the cockpit of the Tornado. Lavishly illustrated, Darren Willmin's superb photographs capture the essence of the machine both from the ground and in the air.This unique collection including some of David Gledhill's own air-to-air pictures of the Tornado F2 and F3 will appeal to everyone with an interest in this iconic aircraft.

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Book SynopsisFor almost half a century, Biggin Hill was the scene of one of the world's best loved and longest-running air shows. Already well known as the site from which Spitfires and Hurricanes were launched during the Second World War, Biggin Hill was made even more famous by the International Air Fair, staged between 1963 and 2010. Often innovative, sometimes weather affected and consistently of the highest calibre, the Biggin Hill International Air Fair was keenly attended by aircraft enthusiasts and families alike. From its outset, the event also inspired countless visitors to pursue a career within aviation. The History of the Biggin Hill International Air Fair details each show, its text accompanied by a host of high quality and nostalgic images, a considerable number of them previously unpublished. It is hoped that with its publication, the story of this legendary event is given the coverage deserved, yesteryear's air show stars are honourably remembered and that many memories are happily reignited.

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Book SynopsisFor a brief period in the early Twentieth Century it seemed as if the future of air travel lay with the giant airships of Count von Zeppelin. The First World War ended that dream, fixed wing aircraft superseding the slow moving and unwieldy airships. As weapons of war the Zeppelins were never truly successful although they did manage to terrify huge numbers of unknowing and naive civilians-perhaps more by imagination than by any practical manifestation of their power. The Zeppelin crews of the First World War spent hours in the air, cold and hungry-and with the prospect of a horrendous death, either by fire or by falling thousands of feet to the ground, ever present. As vehicles of mass destruction the Zeppelins were remarkably ineffective. Their real value, lay in their ability to make silent reconnaissance missions over enemy territory and sea lanes. In the post-war days the public began to realise that airships offered a form of air travel that was comfortable, mostly stable and, sometimes, even luxurious. The 'Graf Zeppelin' and the 'Hindenburg' were the height of elegance.Unfortunately, they had two major defects-they were vulnerable to the elements and, due to the hydrogen that kept them aloft, they were also highly flammable. The 'Hindenburg' disaster of 1937 effectively spelled the end of the giant airship as a commercial enterprise but for almost half a century these wonderful machines had cruised elegantly through the clouds.

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Book SynopsisMore than 33,000 Messerchmitt Bf 109s were built between 1935 and 1945, making it the second-most produced warplane of all time. Its baptism of fire was in Spain during the Spanish Civil War of 1936-39. The Bf 109 was the mainstay of Luftwaffe fighter squadrons, and the favoured choice of most of the Luftwaffe's fighter aces. Luftwaffe Bf 109 pilots accounted for thousands of Allied aircraft, with individual scores for some pilots reached hundreds of downed aircraft. It saw service in Poland, the invasion of France and, of course, during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Although gradually becoming obsolete, the Bf 109 remained in large-scale production until the end of the war, and was supplied to more than ten countries, including Finland, Hungary, and Romania. After the war, development and production continued in Czechoslovakia and Spain as the Avia S-199 and Hispano Ha-1112 respectively, the latter powered by a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. Incredibly, the state of Israel operated Czech-built Avia S-199s during its War of Independence in 1948-49. Today, the Bf 109 is considered one of the greatest fighters ever produced.

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Book SynopsisThis book covers the design, development, production and operations of the Hawker Hurricane before, during and after the Second World War. Without the courage and perseverance of the young men from Britain and the Commonwealth, who risked their lives to beat the Luftwaffe and forestall the enemy invasion of Britain, there would not have been a 'Battle of Britain.' The Hurricane was a simple rugged metal structure that did not require expensive assembly jigs, absorbed a lot of battle damage, and was also simple to repair. Its wide-track undercarriage allowed operations from rapidly prepared grass fields, and the ultimate cannon armament and rocket projectiles could destroy both soft skin and armoured targets. Following the Battles of France and Britain, Spitfires took over much of the air-to-air interception, while Hurricanes roamed around occupied Europe destroying enemy ground targets. They operated off merchant ships on the Russian convoys and were vital in the defence of Malta.Hurricanes worked with the Soviet Air Force within the Arctic Circle, and supported the Eighth Army against the forces of Rommel in the deserts of North Africa, as well as serving with distinction in Asia.

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Book SynopsisThis is a flying adventure book set within the framework of the Cold War and told through the lens of the RAF Pilot's Flying Log Book. Philip Keeble's logbooks cover ten different types of aircraft: from learning to fly in a Chipmunk trainer in 1965, right through to flying the Tornado F3 Fighter in 1994. These true tales are told as anecdotal yarns, ones that put flesh on the bare bones of a logbook in an exciting, amusing and self-deprecating way. The narratives stir up memories of escapades and the events leading up to them. They depict exciting sorties, dangerous emergencies, stupid moments, funny occurrences, and operational practices, but also show the balance and contrast of operating in the Cold War. Keeble got into more than a few scrapes. He flew very high, very low, and very fast with a foolhardiness that at times was culpable. The memories of these events will make you chuckle, break out in a cold sweat, and some may even cause a lump in your throat. The author can vouch for the veracity of every single tale, even the shocking ones. Strap yourselves in securely and hold on tight-for this could be quite a ride.

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Book SynopsisThe history of Soviet strategic bombers after the Second World War is a fascinating one: from the reverse-engineering of interned American Boeing B-29 bombers into the first Soviet strategic bomber, the Tu-4; to the huge jet and turbo-prop powered aircraft of today's Russian Air Force. This comprehensive history of these aircraft will deal not just with the development of aircraft that entered service, but of experimental aircraft as well, and projects that were never even built will also be explored. The service life of these bombers will be covered, including both active and retired aircraft, and their use outside of the Soviet Union, in places such as the Middle East and Afghanistan, will be described in detail. The Soviet Union built some of the first jet-powered strategic bombers, and the Tu-95 Bear, the only swept-winged turbo-prop bomber to ever enter service, remains in service to this day. Less successful aircraft, like the graceful but problem-plagued supersonic Tu-22 Blinder, and the Mach 3 Sukhoi T-4 will also be examined.

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Book SynopsisThe British airliners we see today in our airports are the result of numerous takeovers and mergers, involving large and small companies. This book covers some of these airlines that have ceased operating since 1946: some collapsed because of financial difficulties, some were taken over by larger airlines, and some ceased operating altogether. In post-war Britain, several small airlines were founded and equipped with surplus military aircraft, the most popular being the Douglas Dakota. The book is a guide to each airline, accompanied by a brief historical account, and interesting images of the aircraft in their distinctive colour schemes. The airlines covered are a selection of large and small aircraft, who flew international and regional routes, as well as airlines involved in inclusive tours business.

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Book SynopsisThe Italian airship designer and pilot Umberto Nobile had flown to the North Pole and beyond in 1926. He resolved to go back to the Arctic with a new airship in 1928. There were areas of the Arctic that had not been explored and it was believed that new lands might be there to be discovered. The expedition had geographical and scientific aims, but the political environment was also an important motivator. Mussolini and his Fascist party had come to power in 1922 and a successful expedition to the Arctic would be good propaganda. Instead, however, the 'Italia' was to disappear on its return from Greenland, on 25 May 1928. By the time the expedition was over, eight of the crew and nine attempted rescuers were dead and scores more had been put in harm's way. This is the story of the search for Nobile, the 'Italia', and his crew, and the many men from many countries who searched for them.

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Book SynopsisSoon after entering the war in April 1917 American propaganda promised that she would `Darken the skies over Europe’ by sending over `the Greatest Aerial Armada ever seen’. Encouraged by the French Government America promised to build no less than 22,000 aeroplanes within a year and to field, and to maintain, a force of 4,000 machines, all of the latest type, over the Western Front during 1918, not only to provide adequate air support for her own troops, but because she saw this as a way to use her industrial strength to bypass the squalor of the war in the trenches, and so bring an end to the stalemate of attrition into which the war had descended. However, by the time of the Armistice more than 18 months later just a few hundred American built aeroplanes had reached the war fronts and several investigations into the causes of the failure of the project were already in progress.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Author’s Note; Introduction; 1 Aviation in America before the War; 2 America Enters the War; 3 The US Standardised Aero Engine; 4 Preliminary Proposals; 5 The Mission to Europe; 6 Financing the Plan; 7 The Orders are Placed; 8 Curtiss JN-4; 9 Standard J-1; 10 Royal Aircraft Factory SE5a; 11 SPAD SVII and SXIII; 12 Curtiss R-4 and R-6; 13 Bristol F.2B Fighter; 14 Caproni Bombers; 15 Handley Page O/400; 16 Martin MB-1; 17 De Havilland DH.4; 18 USD-9; 19 LUSAC-11; 20 Growing Dissatisfaction; 21 The Air Service `Over There’; 22 The Situation at the End of the War; Conclusion; Appendix I The Liberty Engine; Appendix II DH.4 Statistics; Appendix III Aircraft Production Facts; Bibliography; Index.

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Book SynopsisFrom late 1941 Italy had been developing a secret project with her German allies to move the V1 wunderwaffen aboard aircraft carriers. Hitler required one million victims to get the British and American governments on their knees and force them to sign an honourable ceasefire. The personal archives of Ansaldo's naval architect Lino Campagnoli (1911-1975), bring back to life the plans for a modern aircraft carrier, the unprecedented transformation of the Impero battleship into a fleet carrier. The new documentation reveals the draft terms of conversion of the last of the four Littorio class modern battleships which were in a state of advanced preparation (hull components and engines completed). In the period 1941-43 a series of plans was drawn for Impero's conversion to an aircraft carrier providing, inter alia, for the embarkation of Fi-103 (the German V1), to provide substance to Italo-German cooperation in strategic military sectors. The Kriegsmarine's underwater tests on the protection of RN Impero's incomplete hull in 1944 put an end to the dream of using her as strategic weapons carrier.

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Book SynopsisThe RFC used the Ramsgate site for emergency landings during December 1914, but it was not developed until the 1930s when Ramsgate councillors proposed an airport be established, and flying commenced in June 1935. Popularity was increased by Sir Alan Cobham's National Aviation Day which was held on 1 August 1935, and a Flying Flea Rally took place in 1936. Crilly and Hillman Airways moved in, but suspended services very soon afterwards. The airfield was extended in 1936, and Flying Holidays took place. On 3 July 1937, Ramsgate Airport Ltd reopened the airport, and the following year the Royal Auxiliary Air Force held summer camps there. Thanet Aero Club joined the Civil Air Guard scheme, and Southern Airways operated a service across the Thames Estuary during the summer, but this all came to a close when war was declared on 3 September 1939. The airfield reopened in 1940 for military use and during the Battle of Britain, Ramsgate, along with nearby RAF Manston, was bombed on 24 August 1940. Following this, and with invasion fears at their height, the airport was obstructed, not reopening until 27 June 1953. Air Kruise Ltd operated on a lease from Ramsgate Cooperation, flying to Europe, and Skyphotos and Skyflights 1950s took over until the summer of 1958. Chrisair started joyriding in 1960, and following their departure in 1963 little happened until East Kent Air Services formed in 1967, but they were not commercially successful and Ramsgate Airport finally closed during 1968. Developers took over and the Art Deco Terminal/Clubhouse was demolished. This book is witness to Ramsgate Airport, now sadly gone.

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Book SynopsisThis is the story of Captain Marendaz, a pilot in the RFC in the Great War and his life as a manufacturer of cars in the 1920s and 1930s when he competed extensively at Brooklands and elsewhere, before moving on to designing and building aircraft. He was closely associated with Stirling Moss's parents and Kaye Don, being involved in trialling and record-breaking with his own cars and the American Graham-Paige. His passage through life was not smooth, being frequently coloured by disputes, ending up with him being arrested under the notorious Category 18B regulations in 1940, causing him to move to South Africa after the war, where trouble followed him before his return to England in 1972. The book also contains a considerable number of first-hand accounts, by people who worked for Captain Marendaz, of life in a small car and aircraft factory before the war, giving a revealing insight into the social history of the period. His sports cars are attractive with good lines, a point brought out in the many illustrations taken in period and more recently of survivors. His correspondence with the author and others provides an insight into his controversial life.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Foreword; Introduction; 1 The Early Years; 2 The Great War; 3 After the War; 4 The Marseal; 5 The Marseal in Competition; 6 The Move to London; 7 London in the Twenties; 8 Marendaz Special in Competition in the 1920s; 9 The 1931 Marendaz Special: the 13/70 in London and Maidenhead; 10 The 1931 Marendaz Special: Production and the People; 11 The 1931 Marendaz Special: Cars, Customers and Closure; 12 Technical Description; 13 Marendaz Special in Competition: 1931-1936; 14 The Moss and Don Connection; 15 The Move to Aircraft Building; 16 18B or not 18B?; 17 After the War; 18 Corresponding with the Captain: Epilogue

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Book SynopsisThe Gothaer Waggonfabrik (GWF), originally a German rail vehicle manufacturer, entered the aircraft industry in 1913. The driving force behind this major change in production in this small Thuringian duchy in central Germany was a member of the British royal family. Gotha aircraft managed to make a name for themselves internationally. As with ‘Fokker’ regarding fighter aircraft, the name ‘Gotha’ is synonymous with German bomber aircraft of the Great War. Even successful seaplanes and the world’s first asymmetric aircraft were a part of GWF’s production at this time, and lasted until the post-war Treaty of Versailles forced the abandonment of aircraft production. Aircraft could not be built in Gotha again until 1933. GWF did get development contracts for the Luftwaffe, but they were essentially incidental side issues and not of the lucrative mass construction variety. In 1939 a world altitude record on the sports aircraft Gotha Go 150, provided GWF with a small though internationally significant highlight. During the war the GWF developed cargo gliders and, under licence, built the Messerschmitt Bf 110. In 1945 Gotha was supposed to undertake batch production of the flying wing jet fighter, Horten Ho 229, and even designed its more radical successor. In 1954 the aircraft construction finally ended and once again, the production consisted of gliders and one last proprietary design was created.

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Book Synopsis'Autogiro Pioneer' is a vivid account of the varied life and adventures of Jack Richardson (1899-1987). The book is based on his memoirs, which have been edited by his son. In the 1930s he worked for Juan de la Cierva, the inventor of the Autogiro (the forerunner of the helicopter), and was the first person to obtain a commercial pilot’s licence as an Autogiro pilot. This work involved (among other activities) several hazardous flights across Europe in all kinds of weather. In 1944 he learnt how to fly the new Sikorsky helicopters in the United States, and became the first fully-trained helicopter pilot in the British Army. In his later career with the Army and with Westland Aircraft he helped to develop the military and commercial uses of the helicopter, played a major role in the construction of the Heliport at Battersea, and was Chairman of The Helicopter Association. As a young man he had been a cavalry officer in the Ninth Lancers, and for seven years a successful orange farmer In South Africa. He was a keen racing skier and amateur painter. The book is illustrated with 100 pictures in black and white and in colour.Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction; 1 Family and Early Years; 2 Prep Schools; 3 Harrow and Gabby’s Crammer; 4 Sandhurst (1917-8); 5 Ireland (1918); 6 Germany (1918-9); 7 Ireland (1920–1) 56 8 South Africa (1922–5) 60 9 South Africa (1925–9) 70 10 England: How I Got Involved with Cierva (1929-34); 11 Flying for Cierva (1934-6); 12 Cierva’s Death and His Character 99 13 Flying in 1936–9 101 14 Skiing 105 15 War in France (May–June 1940); 16 Air Liaison Officer (1940-3); 17 America: Learning to Fly the Helicopter (1943-4); 18 England (1944-54); 19 Westland, the Helicopter Association, and the Heliport (1954-62); 20 Retrospect: The Pattern of My Life; Appendix I: The Richardson Family; Appendix II: The Bishop Family; Appendix III: The Memoirs of Vyvien Hart-Davis (Personal Reminiscences: Gold Coast, Fiji, Cyprus); Appendix IV: The Ormonds’ House in Ciboure During the German Occupation; Appendix V: `K’-it is; Endnotes; Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisWith the approach of WW2 the de Havilland Aerodrome at Hatfield went through a major expansion, concentrating on Mosquito production and development. The Company also pioneered the production and development of jet engines led by Major Frank Halford, leading to the Vampire jet fighter. Early commercial aircraft were the Dove and Heron, but the major pioneering programme was the Comet, the world's first commercial jet airliner, which first flew on 27 July 1949 and entered service with BOAC on 2 May 1952. The DH.108 tailless research aircraft based on the Vampire fuselage was used to investigate the effects of the speed of sound, exceeding Mach 1 on 9 September 1948. The de Havilland jet airliner developed through the Trident, which was the first aircraft capable of automatic landing with passengers in all weathers, leading to the BAe 146 Whisper Jet, Britain's most successful jet airliner. In addition to developing turbojet engines, the Engine Company also developed rocket engines. The Propeller Company developed air-to-air guided missiles and the Blue Streak stage 1 booster space rocket. Other types developed by de Havilland at Hatfield were the Sea Vixen naval strike fighter and the DH 125 Business Jet.Table of ContentsForeword; 1 Leading Up to War; 2 Second World War: Mosquito; 3 Second World War: Vampire and Hornet; 4 Second World War: Supporting the War Effort; 5 Post-War Feederliner Developments; 6 Jet and Rocket Development; 7 Jet Fighter Developments; 8 Comet: The World's First Jet Airliner; 9 de Havilland Propellers; 10 Blue Streak; 11 DH 110 and Sea Vixen; 12 Comet 4; 13 DH 121 Trident and DH 125 Business Jet; 14 Airbus Wing: Centre of Excellence; 15 Bae 146: Britain's Most Successful Jet Airliner; Further Reading.

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Book SynopsisHaving been classified by the Air Ministry as a ‘Master Diversion’ airfield, RAF Manston was for many years open twenty-four hours a day and available to both civil and military aircraft 365 days a year. It was also later equipped with the Pyrene foam system, which both civil and military aircraft could use when they had problems with their undercarriage: there is no doubt that the foam carpet saved many lives. The most spectacular occasion that it was used was on 20 April 1967 when a British Eagle Britannia made a complete wheels-up landing. It is claimed that Manston was the only station to serve in every command of the RAF and until its closure in 1999; it probably dealt with more diverse types of aircraft than any other station. During its eighty-three years as a Royal Naval/ RAF airfield, it played host to the Sopwith Camel, Spitfire, Bf 109, He 111, B-29, B-47, Tu-104, F-84 and Concorde, plus many other types that are too numerous to mention. Table of ContentsForeword; Mighty Manston; Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1 The Czech Invasion; 2 567 Squadron; 3 High-Speed Flight; 4 A New Role for Manston; 5 The First Civil Traffic; 6 Transport Command; 7 A Mixed Bag; 8 Czech Mates; 9 Disaster at Manston; 10 The Station is Honoured; 11 Battle of Britain Day; 12 The American Years; 13 The Manston Spitfire; 14 The RAF Return; 15 New Units, New Faces; 16 Manston on the Big Screen; 17 Helicopters Galore; 18 White Foam and White Horses; 19 A Troubled Year; 20 G-ANCG; 21 A Personal Experience; 22 Rebuilding a Gate Guardian; 23 An Uncertain Future; 24 Countdown to Closure; 25 The Final Days; Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisThe end of the First World War brought with it the closure most of the military aerodromes in Scotland. It, however, retained its links with naval aviation with aircraft carriers frequently exercising off the coast. In the latter part of the decade Auxiliary Air Force squadrons were formed at Edinburgh and Glasgow manned by civilians. With the rise of the Nazis in Germany, the RAF responded by building new airfields or re-opening former First World War sites. They included armament practice camps at Evanton and West Freugh where pilots could practice their skills in bombing and firing their weapons. RAF flying boats also visited various coastal locations around Scotland in the years leading up to the War. The inter-war services also saw the development of scheduled airline services within the country. They were, however, not between major towns but linked remote islands with major towns of the mainland. An air ambulance service was also created to serve isolated communities. All of these developments are covered as well as private flying and gliding. There is also a section on aerodromes that were planned but never built.

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Book SynopsisA great many books have been written over the years about individual airfields or those in particular counties/areas but this one covers a good proportion of them in one publication, from Abbots Bromley to Zeals. It provides brief details of over 1700 airfields from before the First World War to the present day and describes the main activities carried out, based units/operators and current status. It includes military bases, civil airports/airfields, gliding sites, microlight sites and larger farm strips, together with the probable number of based aircraft. An appendix lists over 500 books which have been published about individual airfields and this, together with the details provided in this book affords a convenient source of reference for further research. It does not pretend to include every flying site that ever existed as this would require a much larger volume but covers what are considered to be the most significant airfields of the past 110 years. It includes over one hundred photographs in colour and black & white, most of which have not been published previously.

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Book SynopsisThis book takes a carefully considered look at the history of many lesser known but nevertheless advanced British flying wing, delta and tailless aircraft that stretch across much of the last century. The emphasis is on classified projects considered for research or military purposes, but also includes those aircraft that were built, flown and entered service. The first commercially successful British flying wing biplane was designed by John Dunne and undertook limited military duties during the First World War. Soon, the early flying wing designs gave way to sleeker boomerangs that looked impressive, but often suffered with aerodynamic shortcomings. These were followed by the arrival of advanced wartime German jet powered delta projects initiated by Dr Alexander Lippisch. They were massively influential, with most post-war scientists and engineers immediately recognised the potential for a new generation of high performance warplanes. By the late 1940s, the UK required advanced jet powered bombers capable of carrying atomic bombs over long distances. This created many unusual, often German influenced designs that finally resulted in the V-Bombers. They were followed by short lived concepts for even larger aircraft that were not only capable of delivering nuclear weapons, but powered by nuclear propulsion. At the same time, interest in variable geometry wings gathered momentum, leading to the supersonic Swallow with its impressive science-fiction appearance. Sadly this Barnes Wallace concept was too far ahead of its time to overcome a number of technical issues, but the influence on American combat aircraft was considerable. The British also pushed ahead with ideas for vertical take-off fighters and the delta wing was often the first choice for many proposals. By the 1960s, Britain was attempting to gain a foothold in the space race. Plans were drawn up for rocket launching sites within the UK and the development of exotic delta winged space fighters. The ideas were impressive, although the technology was well beyond the UK's ability to fund and develop. These were glorious times for British aircraft designers who often pushed their ideas to the boundaries of what was possible, with design studies that remain influential today.Table of ContentsIntroduction; 1 Early Flying Wings; 2 Jet Bomber Projects; 3 Post-war Fighters; 4 Pushing the Design Envelope; 5 Rocket Powered Interceptors; 6 VTO/VTOL/STOL Projects; 7 Space Ambitions; 8 Some Final Thoughts; Select Bibliography; Glossary; Index.

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Book SynopsisFirst flown in May 1936, the Fieseler Fi 156, or, as it was better known, Storch (Stork), was designed in answer to a request from the German Luftwaffe for a short range reconnaissance aircraft. For its time, the Fi 156 had amazing performance and flight characteristics, what today is known as STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing). It could take-off from a lawn considerably smaller than a football field. During the Second World War, the ubiquitous Storch was the airborne eyes of the German Wehrmacht (Army), also being used on daring rescue missions, including the rescue of the Italian dictator Mussolini. The last flight out of Berlin was made in a Storch. Many were sold to Germany's allies, while one was used by Churchill after D-Day to observe the progress of the invasion. Others were used by the RAF as squadron 'hacks', with one being flown off an aircraft carrier. The STOL concept was copied by many countries, including France, Japan and the USSR. Post-war, production continued in Czechoslovakia, France and Romania, with more than 3,000 being built. Some are still flying.Table of ContentsPreface; Gerhard Fieseler; Fieseler Fi 156C Technical Description; RLM Specification; Fieseler Fi 156 Variants; The Competitors; Trials and Tribulations; In Luftwaffe Service; The Fieseler Fi 256; Imitations and Look-alikes; Post-war Storch Influences; Modern Clones and Ultralights; Foreign Operators; Preservation; Flying the Storch; Bibliography; Appendices; Index.

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Book SynopsisThe Soviet Air Force had just started to re-equip with modern fighters when the Germans opened Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union. Hundreds of fighters were destroyed in the first few days, but many of these were obsolete biplanes and monoplanes. The remaining fighters, including more modern types such as the MiG-3 and LaGG-3, tried to stem the Nazi advance. This book details the development of the Red Air Force fighters, from the dark days of Operation Barbarossa, to eventual triumph over the ruins of Berlin. Starting with obsolete aircraft such as the Polikarpov biplane and monoplane fighters, the Soviets then settled on two main lines of development; the inline-engined LaGG-3 and its radial-engined derivatives, the La-5 and La-7, and the inline-engined Yakovlev fighters, which were produced in greater numbers than any other series of fighters. Not only are these aircraft described in great detail, but experimental fighters are also dealt with. In addition to the descriptions, accurate colour profiles are provided illustrating the evolution of these aircraft in terms of design, camouflage, and markings. From the fixed undercarriage I-15bis biplane of the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, to the superb La-7 and Yak-3 fighters of the last year of the war, the fighters of the Red Air Force are all covered in this comprehensive book.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Glossary; Preface; Timeline; Introduction; 1 Pre-Second World War Soviet Fighters; 2 Second World War Fighters; 3 Lavochkin Fighters; 4 Mikoyan-Gurevich; 5 Polikarpov; 6 Yakovlev; 7 Twin-Engined Fighters; 8 Colours and Markings in General; 9 Soviet Second World War Fighter Specifications; 10 Non-Soviet Second World War Fighter Specifications; 11 Experimental Fighters; 12 Experimental Fighter Specifications; 13 Concluding Thoughts; Appendix I: Ordnance; Appendix II: Soviet Fighter Doctrine During the Second World War; Appendix III: Soviet Fighter Organisation During the Second World War; Appendix IV: Soviet Fighter Pilot Training; Appendix V: Top Soviet Fighter Aces (Pilots With Fifty or More Kills); Appendix VI: Production Figures; Appendix VII: Fighter Production During the Great Patriotic War for Germany and the Soviet Union; Appendix VIII: Total Fighter Combat Losses During the Great Patriotic War; Bibliography; Index.

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Book SynopsisThis volume focuses on the influence of America’s Second World War aviation development and experience, subsequent aviation technological advances, and world events, in shaping American choices in military aircraft and associated weapons’ development during the few years following the war. It shows how air warfare weapons from the last conflict were carried forward and altered, how new systems evolved from these, and how the choices fared in the next war—Korea. The period was one of remarkable progress in a short span of time via a great many aircraft and weapons programs, and associated technological progress. These systems were of immense importance influencing and growing the engineering, production, and operational capabilities to be exploited for the next generation of weapons that soon followed. Emphasized is the innovative features or new technology and how these contributed to advancing American military aviation, influencing the evolution of follow-on models or types. Included are military prototype, experimental, and research aircraft that are equally important in understanding the history of American aircraft development. Combat employment, progress, and equipment adaptation during the Korean Conflict is then highlighted. Tabulated characteristics are provided of those aircraft that entered production or represented significant technological advances influencing others that follow.Table of ContentsForeword; Acknowledgements; Glossary; Acronyms and Abbreviations; 1 Altered Landscape; 2 Flight Research; 3 Mission Imperatives; 4 Fighters Evolve; 5 Second Generation Fighters; 6 Deviant Fighters; 7 Bombers Transform; 8 Transport and Assault; 9 Helicopters Ascend; 10 Sea Missions; 11 Special Types; 12 Aerial Weapons; 13 The Test-Korea; 14 Precipitous; Endnotes; Bibliography; Index; Author.

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Book SynopsisThe story of the Royal Aircraft Factory at Farnborough, forerunner of the World’s premier aeronautical research establishment wherein were designed a diversity of aircraft including many of those that equipped the RFC, RNAS and RAF during the First World War. Originally established to build observation balloons for the Victorian British Army, the Factory later expanded to employ over 3500 people by mid-1916, at which time it became the subject of a political controversy that ended in a judicial enquiry. In 1918 its title was changed to the Royal Aircraft Establishment, not only to avoid a clash of initials with the newly formed Royal Air Force but to better define its changing role. Each of the many designs for airships and aeroplanes that were produced by the Factory between 1908 and 1918 is described in detail, illustrated by photographs, and with three-view drawings provided for the more prominent designs.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Introduction; Prehistory; A new era begins; Aeroplanes again; Military and other trials; Tested in battle; Enemies in high places; Change and decay; AIRSHIPS: Nulli Secundus; Baby/Beta; Gamma; Delta; Eta; Epsilon; AEROPLANES: A.E.1; A.E.2; A.E.3; Aerial Target; B.E.1; B.E.2; B.E.2a; B.E.2b; B.E.2c; B.E.2d 159; B.E.2e, f and g; B.E.3; B.E.4; B.E.5; B.E.6; B.E.7; B.E.8; B.E.8a; B.E.9; B.E.9a; B.E.10; B.E.11; B.E.12; B.E.12a; B.E.12b; B.S.1; B.S.2; C.E.1; F.E.1; F.E.2; F.E.2a; F.E.2b; F.E.2c; F.E.2d; F.E.2e, f, g and h; F.E.3 (A.E.1); F.E.4; F.E.5; F.E.6; F.E.7; F.E.8; F.E.9; F.E.10; F.E.11; F.E.12; H.R.E.2; H.R.E.6; N.E.1; R.E.1; R.E.2; R.E.3; R.E.4; R.E.5; R.E.6; R.E.7; R.E.8; R.E.8a; R.E.9; S.E.1; S.E.2; S.E.3; S.E.4; S.E.4a; S.E.5; S.E.5a; S.E.5b; S.E.5E; S.E.6; S.E.7; T.E.1; Appendix 1 Prototype production; Appendix 2 Production machines; Appendix 3 Royal Aircraft Factory engines; Appendix 4 Survivors and reproductions; Endnotes; Index.

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Book SynopsisFor 100 years, the world's oldest independent air force, the RAF, forged a distinguished record in military air operations from the First World War through to recent operations over Iraq and Syria. There is, however, a field of endeavour in which the Royal Air Force has excelled: selling its public image. Of the three armed services, the air force is the one perfectly placed to advertise its wares 'at home' with the facilities to accommodate large audiences, through scintillating flying displays with ever more impressive aircraft and large airfields with readily available facilities. Originally centred on the RAF station at Hendon in North London, the RAF held its first public 'Air Pageant' in 1920. A grand affair, it continued as an annual event until 1937 when it was succeeded by the widespread 'Empire Air Day' held at several RAF stations until war intervened in 1939. The RAF came to true military prominence during the Second World War, particularly the 'Battle of Britain'; this then became the focus of the celebration and commemoration. However, the Battle of Britain Displays constantly contracted, eventually to zero, but for much of their existence were the most impressive air shows around the globe.

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Book SynopsisThis book covers the design, development, production and operational service of the Vickers Wellington from before the Second World War through to the 1950s. The aircraft and crews served with great distinction from the start to the end of the Second World War despite heavy losses. The aircraft was operated by Bomber Command until replaced by the bigger four engine heavy bombers, and played a major part in the Mediterranean Theatre. Its versatility was show with maritime operations against the U-boat threat. It was also used for transport and the hazards of aircrew training. It’s geodetic construction, developed from the airship era, made it rugged and capable of absorbing battle damage bring its crews home safely from combat over hostile territory.Table of ContentsIntroduction; Design and Development; Early Wellington Operations; Main Force Operations; Aircrew Training; Wellingtons in the Mediterranean; Maritime Operations; Asia, Africa, and Arabia; Multi-role Wellingtons; Post-War Service; Foreign Air Forces; Preserved Wellingtons; Appendix I: Specifications; Appendix II: Production; Appendix III: Service Units; Further Reading.

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Book SynopsisIn Concorde, Jonathan Glancey tells the story of this magnificent and hugely popular aircraft anew, taking the reader from the moment Captain Chuck Yeager first broke the sound barrier in 1947 through to the last commercial flight of the supersonic airliner in 2003. It is a tale of national rivalries, technological leaps, daring prototypes, tightrope politics, and a dream of a Dan Dare future never quite realized. Jonathan Glancey traces the development of Concorde not just through existing material and archives, but through interviews with those who lived with the supersonic project from its inception. The result is a compelling mix of overt technological optimism, a belief that Britain and France were major players in the world of civil as well as military aviation, and faith in an ever faster, ever more sophisticated future. This is a celebration, as well as a thoroughly researched history, of a truly brilliant machine that became a sky god of its era.Trade ReviewA thoughtful hymn to a great symbol of the analogue age... Concorde will be the standard long read on the subject for a good few years * The Times *What Jonathan Glancey likes about Concorde could probably fill several books... His history of the Anglo-French supersonic airliner is nevertheless engaging, tracing the arc of Concorde's rise in the 1970s, an unlikely triumph of engineering and international co-operation, through to its decommissioning in 2003... This is an enthusiast's book, but a good one. * Financial Times *Jonathan Glancey is eminently qualified to write a history of Concorde... He fully appreciates the aesthetics and science of aeronautical engineering, and the lucidity of his prose makes his complex subject clearly comprehensible * Spectator *How welcome it is to see a specialist book from someone who can write... What might appear to be yet another book on this widely exposed aircraft is actually one very much worth reading. * Pilot *Glancey skilfully tells the tale of a plane forged from a great trans-national alliance, and how it eventually fellfrom sky, taking with it - perhaps temporarily - the dream of a world shrunk small by the sheer force of technology. * Wallpaper *Excellent... Glancey has a gift for explaining complex issues... he also sprinkles the text with vivid phrases. -- Leo McKinstry * Literary Review *

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Book SynopsisIn Airplane Reading, Christopher Schaberg and Mark Yakich bring together a range of essays about air travel. Discerning and full of wonder, this prismatic collection features perspectives from a variety of writers, airline workers, and everyday travelers. At turns irreverent, philosophical, and earnest, each essay is a veritable journey in and of itself. And together, they illuminate the at once strange and ordinary world of flight. Contributors: Lisa Kay Adam * Sarah Allison * Jane Armstrong * Thomas Beller * Ian Bogost * Alicia Catt * Laura Cayouette * Kim Chinquee * Lucy Corin * Douglas R. Dechow * Nicoletta-Laura Dobrescu * Tony D'Souza * Jeani Elbaum * Pia Z. Ehrhardt * Roxane Gay * Thomas Gibbs * Aaron Gilbreath * Anne Gisleson * Anya Groner * Julian Hanna * Rebecca Renee Hess * Susan Hodara * Pam Houston * Harold Jaffe * Chelsey Johnson * Nina Katchadourian * Alethea Kehas * Greg Keeler * Alison Kinney * Anna Leahy * Allyson Goldin Loomis * Jason Harrington * Kevin Haworth * Randy Malamud * Dustin Michael * Ander Monson * Timothy Morton * Peter Olson * Christiana Z. Peppard * Amanda Pleva * Arthur Plotnik * Neal Pollack * Connie Porter * Stephen Rea * Hugo Reinert * Jack Saux * Roger Sedarat * Nicole Sheets * Stewart Sinclair * Hal Sirowitz * Jess Stoner * Anca L. Szilagyi * Priscila Uppal * Matthew Vollmer * Joanna Walsh * Tarn WilsonTrade ReviewA marvelous story round-up exploring and explaining what air travel does to us, and makes us do. Buy it now, but save it to read on your next cross-country flight. Harriet Baskas, travel writer for USAToday.com, author of Stuck at the Airport

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