Search results for ""key publishing ltd""

This book showcases the Fokker F-27 Friendship around the globe.

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Britain has been responsible for some of the greatest and most varied sports cars ever built - the Blower' Bentleys of the 1920s, diminutive MGs of the 1930s, glamorous Jaguar E-types and Aston Martin DB5s of the 1960s, and beyond that the jaw-dropping Lotuses and McLarens of more recent times. This book charts the rich history of the UK's most magnificent high-performance machines, from their primitive, pioneering days through today's technologically advanced modern sports cars. Taking in some of the most admired and sought after cars ever created, it aims to show how, over nearly 140 years, these exciting, and sometimes extraordinary, vehicles developed. The author explores how speeds have risen, handling has been enhanced, styles have evolved and sophistication has increased. Illustrated with over 180 pictures, this fascinating story of the ups and downs of the world's love affair with Britain's sports cars is almost as dramatic and dynamic as the machines themselves.

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The North American Mustang is one of the most well-studied aircraft, the subject of many hundreds or thousands of books and articles. However, much of what is commonly understood about the Mustang, particularly its early Allison-powered variants, is not entirely correct, nor entirely complete. The published record is strewn with myths and misconceptions, which have persisted across decades.The common perception of the Allison Mustang is that of a flawed and ineffective aircraft, merely a prelude to the definitive' Merlin-engined versions: an aircraft scorned and rejected by the RAF and USAAF, relegated to less important tasks by both. This orthodoxy ignores the Allison Mustang's contribution in service and influence on design.By placing the creation, evolution and use of the aircraft in as full a context as possible, the truth behind many of these commonly accepted ideas emerges. Mustang: The Untold Story examines the history of the aircraft afresh, within the orbit of tactical doctrin

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The vision of Alliott Verdon Roe and his team in designing and building the 748 resulted in a highly successful commercial airliner, that since the 1960s has been responsible for opening new air routes in many corners of the world. Many of the airstrips into which the 748 formerly operated are now fully fledged international airports, with paved runways, sophisticated air traffic control and navigation equipment, and shops, but it was not always this way. In the early days, the 748 proved its worth worldwide by operating on dirt airstrips and at high elevations and temperatures. Spanning a period of almost 30 years, this book sets out to illustrate some of the many operators of the type, from the initial Series 1 to the final Series 2B. Fully illustrated with over 100 photographs, many of which have not previously been in the public domain, this book dives into the history and global impact of the Avro 748. 100 illustrations

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In the late 2000s, Freightliner was looking to expand its locomotive fleet towards more powerful and fuel-efficient locomotives that were compliant with the various European Union emission standards and rules. In a departure from the newest and most common locomotives running on the network at the time, Class 66s built by General Motors, Freightliner looked to General Electric to construct these new machines and opted to place an initial order for 20 locomotives with an option for a further ten. The new Class 70 was a 3,690bhp locomotive of a very different design from the Class 66s, with a focus on reliability and efficiency. Eventually, Freightliner declined to take up the option of the further ten locos and instead they were taken on by Colas Rail. Containing over 190 colour photographs, this book is a collection of images showing every Class 70 locomotive, except the ill-fated 70012, over the last decade or so that they have been in service. It shows a variety of locations, mostly in the south of England, where these impressive locomotives can be seen at work. 190 colour photographs

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The last two decades have seen many changes to the railways of Central Scotland with different ownership of passenger franchises and new locomotives and rolling stock for both passenger and freight. These changes have intensified over the five years covered in this book with the main feature being an extensive program of electrification giving no fewer than five electrified routes between Edinburgh and Glasgow. This volume, illustrated with over 180 colour photographs and including a wide variety of trains and liveries, looks at the sweeping changes that have taken place on the ever-changing railways of Central Scotland in the last five years. 180 colour photographs

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Between the world wars, Hungary was a relatively small country aiming to recover territory lost because of World War One, and its Army was trained, equipped, armed and prepared to fight with its neighbours, to this end. At the outset of World War Two, Hungarian involvement in the war was minimal. Then, suddenly, this small country found itself in a total war with the Allied nations, primarily the Soviet Union. Although in 1941, this war was remote, in 1944-45 it arrived in Hungary, crushing the kingdom. This book gives a brief history of the Hungarian Army (Honv ds g), focusing on the main armament of the land forces: armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, infantry weapons and motor vehicles. The Hungarian Army had an interesting mix of weaponry and equipment inherited from the Austro-Hungarian Army, purchased from Germany, Italy, Sweden and Switzerland and produced by the Hungarian war industry, based on licences or its own designs. The 170 illustrations include 18 original colour photos and 18 colour profiles, skilfully painted by Tamas Deak.

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Go-Ahead began life as the Gateshead-based Go-Ahead Northern bus company after the privatisation of the National Bus Company in 1987. Early expansion saw the acquisition of a number of smaller bus operators in the North East. During the 1990s, it entered London, where it rapidly became the largest provider of bus services in the UK capital. It has subsequently acquired operations across England. Rail privatisation has presented another opportunity for the group and it currently operates Govia Thameslink Railway, comprising Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern as well as South Eastern. More recently, it has established an overseas presence and runs buses in Singapore and Dublin along with rail services in Germany and Norway. All of these are franchised operations. The Group continues to believe that public transport is best managed locally and its operating companies all retain local management and identities. Illustrated with over 150 colour illustrations, this book looks at its first 25 years in detail with a brief update of developments since then.

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The first of two volumes covering the railways of the South East, this book focuses mainly on Sussex but also includes small sections of Surrey and Kent. It concentrates on locomotive-hauled traffic and details a wide range of trains including inter-regional passenger, parcels and mail, fuel, heavy freight, test trains, engineers traffic, Rail Head Treatment Trains, Snow and Ice Treatment Trains, railtour excursions and the luxurious Orient Express. An extensive range of different liveries, many now consigned to history on the main line, are shown. There is also a small selection of DEMUs in some of the areas they once operated. Over 180 colour photographs, the vast majority of which have never been published before, serve to illustrate some of the wonderful countryside to be found in this corner of England as well as the trains that run through it. They are complemented by informative captions detailing not only the trains themselves but also some of the infrastructure and features found along the routes covered. 180 illustrations

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Red Flag is the world's premier air-to-air combat exercise. Run by the US Air Force from Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, its aim is to provide aircrew with a safe environment in which to take part in interview air combat sorties. It takes place over the vast Nevada Test and Training Range and is attended by participants from allied nations around the world, with 29 countries having taken part with the US since 1975. These visitors bring with them their own variety of aircraft, adding to the diverse array gracing the skies over Las Vegas. Illustrated with over 140 full-colour photographs, this stunning collection looks at the many aircraft involved in Red Flag, including firefighters such as the Eagle, Super Hornet, and Raptor; support aircraft such as the Stratotanker and Sentry; helicopters such as the Black Hawk and Apache; and a multitude of other aircraft from both sides of the Atlantic. Also included are 'Red Force' fighters, with their unique paint schemes, which aim to replicate the look and tactics of potential adversaries. 140 illustrations

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The years between 2006 and 2015 saw many changes in Central Scotland's railways with projects such as the rebuilding and reopening of the lines from Maryhill to Anniesland and the Larkhall branch, as well as the opening of the Stirling to Alloa and Kincardine line in 2008, followed by the Airdrie to Bathgate route in December 2010. Illustrated with over 150 colour photographs, this volume looks at the transformation of the main route network in Central Scotland, over the ten-year period, detailing changing franchises, different liveries and new lines, locomotives and rolling stock. 150 illustrations

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Lodekkas first appeared in service during a period when the passenger-transport industry was enjoying a peak in popularity. Passenger numbers were among their highest ever in the provinces, and most members of society relied on public transport for journeys to and from work or school, or for leisure activities. The Lodekka was supplied only to state-owned transport operators, as a result of sales restrictions imposed on the manufacturer, yet some 5,217 examples were built between 1949 and 1968, making it one of the most familiar British double-deck bus types throughout the 1950s, '60s and '70s. This book, which features a huge variety of photographs, including a number of official views which will be of great interest to modellers and enthusiasts alike, recalls a period when Bristol Lodekkas not only formed the mainstay of many provincial bus fleets but also one in which company liveries were closely associated with specific areas of the country. It gives a colourful look at the life and times of the Bristol Lodekka, portraying it in different liveries and locations as it worked the country with a variety of operators.

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The changes to rail freight in Wales and the Borders since the 1980s have been dramatic in many ways and have often been a knock-on effect of huge transformations in the industries that the railway serves, most notably, the coal-mining sector. These have led to a railway with a slimmed-down infrastructure and renewed traction and rolling-stock fleets.Until the 1980s, coal was still the lifeblood of many railway lines in South Wales. However, one by one, the pits closed, leaving just a handful of surface operations still active in 2020. The sight and sound of a Class 37 winding its way up a steep-sided valley is now a distant memory. Industrial decline has affected other traffics too, with the loss of the heavy iron ore trains to Llanwern and many other flows. However, Welsh rail freight is far from dead. Class 60-hauled oil and steel trains still ply the South Wales main line, and there have even been small revivals such as cement from Penyffordd.Illustrated with over 150 stunning photographs, many of which are previously unpublished, this volume looks at the changing face of rail freight in Wales and the Borders, detailing the changes in traction, rolling stock and railway infrastructure over four decades. 160 illustrations

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Produced annually by the team from Modern Railways - the leading monthly rail magazine, The Modern Railway 2021 offers a comprehensive review of the UK rail industry, together with an overview of events in Europe. With contributions from Roger Ford, Tony Miles, Alan Williams and other members of the team, The Modern Railway 2021 provides an in-depth examination of: Policy and finance, Infrastructure maintenance and renewal, Train operation (passenger and freight), Major projects now under way including the recently confirmed HS2, Rolling stock manufacturing and maintenance, Signalling and telecommunications, Customer interface and support, Light rail and Metro systems as well as European developments. And in addition to editorial coverage of all the main players and projects, The publication includes a comprehensive directory of almost 3,000 suppliers and businesses involved in all aspects of the UK rail industry.

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For Operation Telic, the 2003 campaign in Iraq, the UK was the junior partner alongside their American allies but still contributed a substantial force. This was based around the 1st Armoured Division consisting of 7th Armoured Brigade, 16 Air Assault Brigade and 102 Logistics Brigade, with the Marines of 3 Commando Brigade under command. This photographic diary concentrates on 16 Air Assault Brigade's two parachute battalions, 1 and 3 Para. Beginning with the invasion and operations in the southern oilfields, the story follows 3 Para's successful entry into Basrah, before the action switches to 1 Para and a move to Baghdad to secure the British Embassy. This is followed by a look at life at the Embassy and on patrol in the city before 3 Para's return south. Written by a media escort and photographer with 3 Para, who was himself a Para for 23 years and continued to serve as a reservist, this book shows how paratroopers looked and fought during the campaign. Illustrated with over 200 colour photographs, it shows the reality of British forces in a modern-day war, with insights into the Parachute Regiment's equipment and operations.

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The Land Rover was a post-war marvel, a vehicle that helped change the face of motoring on and off-road around the world. From its humble beginnings as a temporary stopgap intended to get the Rover Company up and running again, created in a workshop at Solihull, it soon endeared itself to those who needed to travel off the beaten track anywhere in the world. Its success can be gauged by the fact that, in only six years, more than 100,000 were made. The vehicle evolved quickly in its first ten years from 1948-58 - to the extent that the Land Rovers known as Series Ones include five wheelbases and three engines - and it became a permanent part of the Rover Company's range. Owners and drivers soon included royalty, farmers, explorers and soldiers, and the Land Rover became a ubiquitous part of the British landscape, especially in rural areas. Inevitably, the Land Rovers that started the legend became cherished and sought-after classics, to the extent that the Land Rover Series One Club is now the largest Land Rover club in the world. Series Ones are owned by people as diverse as the tasks Land Rovers are expected to perform, and this book reflects that. Photographed in recent years, it offers a portrait of these cherished vehicles, their owners and the events they attend.

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This book looks at all aspects of Brazil's aviation, including its air force, army and naval aviation wings and the aircraft that serve the police force.

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Following on in the series of British aircraft in the 1970s and '80s, this book explores the transport aircraft that served during this time period, including the Argosy, Belfast, Hastings and more.

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TAC was the largest of the USAF’s major Cold War combatant commands. Formed in 1946 and headquartered at Langley AFB, Virginia, it operated a huge range of aircraft over the following 46 years until it was inactivated in 1992. In 1946, it was equipped with mainly World War Two aircraft types including P-47s and P-51s. It soon ushered into service jet aircraft operations with the P-80 and F-86. Within a few years, TAC was operating a wide range of tactical fighters, ground attack fighters, light bombers, tactical missiles, photographic reconnaissance and special mission aircraft (reconnaissance, special operations, and electronic warfare). TAC played a significant part in the Korean War, the Cuban missile crisis and later the wars in SE Asia and the Gulf in 1991. It came to operate a large number of tactical fighter and attack aircraft including the F-84, F-100 and F-105. As the 1960s progressed, they were joined by the A-7, F-111 and F-4 and, in the 1980s, supplemented by A-10s, F-15s and F-16s through to the end of the Cold War. In the run-up to any war with the USSR, Tactical Air Command was expected to deploy its combat airpower to USAF Commands in Europe and/or the Pacific. That deployment capability struggled during the 1970s. However, from 1978 to 1984, the strength and capability of TAC was transformed by its new commander, General Wilbur ‘Bill’ Creech. He organised, equipped and prepared his units (including ANG and AFRES elements) to deploy from the continental US to the frontline in Europe. Ready to fight and familiarized with their area of operations they could have joined the war immediately, drawing on pre-positioned weapons stocks. As the Soviet threat diminished towards the end of the 1980s, all TAC’s preparations, planning and capabilities were tested for real following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. Suddenly sent to Middle East in the countries surrounding Iraq, those well tested plans saw TAC aircraft form a major part of all coalition air forces that took part in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In 1992, in a major USAF reorganisation TAC became Air Combat Command.

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The first half of the 1990s was a period of significant change for the BR shunter fleet, which by now almost entirely consisted of Class 08s and Class 09s. The Sectorisation structure that had been in place at the beginning of the decade was replaced in the run up to privatisation with the locomotives divided up between passenger and freight operators in preparation for selling off to private companies. At the same time, rationalisation of the fleet was continuing as traffic levels continued to fall while new hire firms began to emerge, these offering shunters to industrial concerns. This naturally brought a plethora of colourful liveries as the new operators divested themselves from BR. This book examines this period of great change, culminating with the final demise of the national railway operator in 1997.

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The story of aviation is, above all, the story of success. Few, if any, industries could have equalled the astounding pace of the development of flight. For many, however, it was also the story of failure – of wasted ideas, wasted designs and wasted money. There is also a third category of aviation. A sort of success-failure story. These were the aircraft that never completely made the grade – and their histories and development are as fascinating as any. This book explores ten of these ‘middle of the road’ aircraft. Some were just poor aircraft; some came at the wrong time; some were misused; and some found themselves in the most awful of predicaments – they became the target of political bias. But they were all characters. They all had a working life, however limited, and they all had their vices and virtues. Including first-hand accounts from designers, test pilots, operators and aircrew, this book presents detailed research into the truth behind the image. The aircraft included are the B.E.2c, R.E.8, General Aircraft Monospar, Armstrong Whitworth Argosy, Fairey Battle, Blackburn Roc, Westland Whirlwind, Saro Lerwick, Avro Manchester, and Vickers Supermarine Swift.

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Preserved aircraft can be found around the world, showcasing paint schemes and names that may have been lost to history otherwise. Focusing on the rest of the world, this book looks at a mix of new and old aircraft. With over 180 images, the aircraft, their history and current locations are all detailed. This book contains a wide range of aircraft, whether they are a common preserved type or the last of their kind.

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Established 31 years ago by means of a fleet of Soviet-made Tupolev Tu-154 passenger aircraft, Mahan Air soon turned into the largest airline of Iran. Despite being highly sanctioned by the US government and many other EU countries, Mahan Air has managed to take the place of Iran Air, Iran's flag carrier, in many of the domestic and international routes to Iran in recent years. Under control of retired Generals of Islamic Revolutionary Guard of Corps (IRGC), the airline plays an important role in transportation of personnel and troops of the Quds Force (IRGCQF) branch of the force from Iran to Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. Within the past eleven years, thousands of IRGCQF members were deployed to Syria using passenger aircraft, such as the large fleet of Airbus A310s of the airline. Mahan Air also serves political interests of the Iranian government in the Middle East and Latin America. The airline has had two of its A340-303s, two Airbus A340-642s and one of its Boeing 747-3B3Ms leased to flag carriers of Syria and Venezuela. Despite being heavily sanctioned , Mahan Air has not only managed to maintain its fleet of Avro Jet RJ70/85/100s, Airbus A310s, A300s, A340s and Boeing 747s but also managed to increase their numbers to a level to become the largest airline of the country, connecting it to East and Southeast Asia by means of its large fleet of long-haul and wide-body passenger aircraft.

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By the beginning of the 1980s, British Rail's fleet of diesel shunters was in decline, this being caused by a rapid loss of freight traffic across the country as well as the modernisation of passenger train operations, both resulting in a reduced need for shunting. Many of the smaller lower-powered classes had already been withdrawn or were teetering on the brink of extinction while even the ubiquitous Class 08s were increasingly feeling the pinch. While the number of shunters may have been reducing, this was in part balanced by the emergence of new looks as depots became increasingly interested in personalising their charges with names or colourful adornments. As the decade progressed and the hold of the corporate blue era gave way to Sectorisation, many colourful new liveries appeared on numerous shunters. This book examines this contrast in fortunes with photos of shunters at work and rest from across the UK during the 1980s, mostly in British Rail ownership but also including examples sold into industrial use.

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Inspiring science fiction writers for decades, it was no surprise when the space age began in the late 1950s that Mars was an early target for exploration. The earliest attempts were probes designed to fly past and take pictures of the planet. In the 1970s, the first orbiters touched down and showed the reality of the planet. By the turn of the century, small roving vehicles had started exploring the surface and, within the last decade, larger vehicles powered by radioactive isotopes have been moving out further and further from their landing sites. Mars continues to be a source of fascination and future exploration. With over 180 images, this book tracks the creation and implementation of the Mars rovers and the exploration that has occured on the planet so far.

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No other military fighting force in the world has the same mystique and aura as the United States Marine Corps (USMC). Since its inception, the USMC has embraced its reputation of being a hard fighting, aggressive, and rugged military branch. Marines take great pride in their heritage, and it extends to all parts of their organization, from their warrior ethos to their uniforms. However, their bravado is not empty, as the Marines have centuries of victories to back up their elite status. The core competency of the USMC is being able to quickly project power anytime and anywhere, and this expeditionary force projection is achieved with the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). The MAGTF brings air and ground assets to the fight while also supplying important logistics, all working in unison to attack and defeat the enemy. With over 130 stunning photographs, this book showcases the capabilities, equipment, and implementations of the MAGTF around the world.

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This highly illustrated volume looks at the French Air Force as it sees the withdrawal of the Transall Gabriel and the Dassault Mirage 2000C in 2022.

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Chilean military aviation has a long history, but in the past 25 years it has experienced unprecedented growth, accompanying the development of the Chilean economy and the country's more active participation in regional and world affairs. Since the mid-1990s, considerable expansion programmes have been developed for the Air Force, Naval and Army aviation, which have made the Chilean air arm one of the most modern and powerful in Latin America. The Carabineros and the Policia de Investigaciones (Investigative Police), dedicated to internal security, make up the total of five Chilean state organisations that use aircraft. While Chilean military aviation has never taken part in a conflict, it has experienced years of tension with the country's three neighbours (Argentina, Bolivia and Peru). Although relations have since improved, there are new challenges to be faced, especially after 2018, when the country's domestic situation worsened and violence in the south increased. Illustrated with more than 140 photographs, this book shines a spotlight on all Chilean air assets. It gives a fascinating insight into their histories, comprehensive details of their current organisation, their missions and the aircraft they operate, and full 'orders of battle' for each air arm.

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Curtiss, as a company, contributed a great deal in establishing the US aircraft industry firmly on the world stage, but behind every great company is usually one forward thinking man, and in this case, it was Glenn Hammond Curtiss. By the end of World War One, the company had built over 10,000 aircraft. Glenn Curtiss would remain a director until his premature death in 1930\. In 1929, the company merged to become Curtiss-Wright. The lack of research and development invested in the company leading up to the jet age also saw the premature demise of Curtiss-Wright itself. The aircraft Curtiss-Wright created leading up to World War Two were not the best, but the company's business-like approach to aircraft manufacturing meant that it could produce large numbers for a variety of customers, foreign included, at a reasonable price. However, in 1947, its one attempt at breaking into the area of jet aircraft had failed and the aviation side of Curtiss-Wright was sold to North American Aviation. This new book edition of Aeroplane's Curtiss Company Profile 1907-1947 showcases the aircraft of this manufacturer from the start of operations until the end.

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Even if the North American Aviation B-25 Mitchell had only participated in the Doolittle Raid, it would have cemented its place in history - but it did so much more. Whether flying dangerous low-level strafing missions across the South Pacific from New Guinea to the shores of the Japanese Home Islands or battling nature and deadly German flak over the Brenner Pass in northern Italy, the Mitchell established a reputation for being the best medium bomber used by the Allies during the war. The Mitchell was easy to fly for an inexperienced wartime-trained pilot, and a well-trained pilot could get it off a carrier deck, fully loaded. The aircraft was resilient and could suffer damage from enemy fire, be it from Zeros over Rabaul or 88mm flak sited in the mountains along the Brenner Pass, and bring the crews home - even in bombers so badly damaged that they never flew again. With over 115 images, this book tells the story of the creation of an aviation classic and the brave crews who made its reputation.

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The first traces of Polish aviation can be found in 1910. However, the first fully domestic airline in Poland was established in Pozna? in 1921 and lasted only for the duration of the Pozna? International Fair. A second, and more permanent, airline, under the name of Aerolloyd, was formed in 1922 by Polish oil barons and operated from the Free City of Danzig, with the help of German investors. Aerolloyd, or Aerolot in Polish, initiated a merger with some smaller competing Polish airlines in 1927 to form LOT Polish Airlines, which was owned by the Polish state. In the early days, LOT used both older German aircraft and the Fokker VII, which were built under licence in Poland. During World War Two, when Poland was occupied by German troops, the airline ceased all operations. After the war, and under Soviet control, LOT was forced to use Russian-built aircraft, though in certain cases, some Western aircraft were also used. In general, however, LOT remained a loyal customer of the Russian aviation industry until the fall of the Berlin Wall. By that time, more Western equipment was entering the fleet, and the airline was gradually expanding its route network. Although LOT has had to face numerous problems, including the grounding of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 fleet, a failed privatisation and the COVID-19 pandemic, the airline has managed to become the leading airline in Eastern Europe. Illustrated with over 150 photographs, this book tells the history of this fascinating airline from its beginnings to the present day.

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While airlines such as Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines became synonymous with service and reliability around the world, one airline in South America was enjoying similar status within the Americas. Varig began life in the southernmost state of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, following the vision of a German immigrant. The company, founded in 1927 in the city of Porto Alegre with a small seaplane, soon began to expand its route network beyond Rio Grande do Sul and into the more remote areas of Brazil. In 1945, the Ruben Berta Foundation was set up, which allowed the company's shareholding to be distributed amongst all its employees, a situation almost unique in aviation. For almost 80 years, until it was wound up in 2006, Varig continually expanded its network, both in Brazil and around the world, introduced the Air Bridge between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo and set up a round-the-world cargo network. During its existence, Varig operated more than 30 different types of aircraft. Illustrated with over 140 photographs, this book details Varig's origins, its growth and the reasons it eventually went out of business.

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During the late 1940s and into the 1950s, a number of British jet fighter and bomber aircraft were fitted with new, different or additional engines, both jet and rocket, to enable them to serve as test beds for those specific powerplants. These aircraft types included fighters such as the de Havilland Vampire, Gloster Meteor and Javelin, and Hawker Hunter, the one-off Hawker P.1072 and the English Electric Canberra, Short Sperrin, Vickers Valiant and Avro Vulcan bombers. This book brings together these specific aircraft, and the engines they tested, in a single volume. Accompanied by over 200 images, some of which are published here for the first time, it is an invaluable reference tool for both aviation enthusiasts interested in experimental and trails aircraft and modellers specialising in jet aircraft.

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Grand Central is an innovative and pioneering railway open-access operator with a relatively short, but varied history. Beginning operations in 2007, Grand Central runs its routes, Sunderland and Bradford Interchange to London King's Cross, along the East Coast Main Line. Initially running High Speed Trains (HSTs), Class 180s joined the fleet in 2009. These continued to be the class in use after the HSTs were discontinued on the routes. With over 200 images, this book illustrates the wonderful landscapes of Grand Central's routes, the types of trains operated, including the iconic HSTs, and some rare behind-the-scenes locations not often seen by the public. It covers from the days of the early crew-training trains operated by heritage traction to the present day, including the foray into Blackpool, and looks at how the company's innovation and experience is shaping its future and the part it plays within the current railway landscape.

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The preserved heritage museum railways of Britain are thriving. Not only is there continuing nostalgia for the steam locomotives of a bygone era, but a growing number of diesel locos and multiple units, both in use and under restoration on site, make the different lines ever more attractive to the modern enthusiast. This book contains a multitude of information to help the reader find and enjoy these lines, including maps, mileages (miles and chains), gradient profiles and tables of locomotives and multiple units. Details of steam locomotives are covered, together with the often-overlooked ex-industrial steam and diesel locomotives. The information provided here also includes the statuses and current liveries of rolling stock at each of the featured railways, as well as details of future plans for expansion and refreshment facilities. Lavishly illustrated with colour photographs showing some of the best locations for lineside and station photography, this book is a vital guidebook for anyone looking to explore Britain's preserved railways.

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This definitive history of the Pathfinders and the role they played in World War Two takes an in-depth look at the elite unit, from its initial inception, and less than spectacular start, to its development as a precision instrument that transformed bomber operations. The aircraft, technology and weapons used are covered in full, as are the characters involved with the unit. The author also details the training and techniques deployed, in particular the emergence of the Master Bomber and Long-Stop systems. Finally, the Pathfinder Force's contribution to victory is assessed. This comprehensive look at one of the war's most fascinating units will give the reader a greater understanding of the unit's vital contribution to the war and show how some of the techniques developed are still in use today.

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In August 1961, Iranian Airways and Persian Air Services merged to form United Iranian Airlines. A few months later, however, Iran National Airline Corporation was formed by order of the Iranian government, and the new airline took over operations from United Iranian Airlines. When the airline entered the jet age, a few Boeing 727s were leased, which operated on routes to most major cities in Europe as well as the Persian Gulf region. Later, Boeing 737s for domestic flights and Boeing 707s for semi-long-haul flights were purchased, followed by Boeing 747s and 747SPs for the non-stop Tehran-New York route. The Shah of Iran also ordered the French Concorde, an order which was cancelled immediately after the Revolution. As a result of the Revolution and the Iran-Iraq war, domestic and international passenger numbers went down. At the end of the war with Iraq, the Iranian government decided to end the monopoly status of Iran. Fully illustrated with over 140 images, this book tells the story of Iran's national carrier from its earliest years to the present day.

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As the climate changes it is even more vital to protect the world's forests. They provide both the lungs' of the world and the natural resources for many industries. This book looks at both the past and the current selection of fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and support aircraft tasked with protecting our natural environment from fire. Covering America, Canada, Russia, southern Europe and other nation states, the operators of these fleets - governments and private contractors - are looked at, along with their aircraft, as they go about the dangerous task of protecting the world's forests. With over 230 images, this book covers all the aircraft types used in the water bomber role - World War Two fighters and bombers, piston-powered airliners and cargo aircraft of the 1950s, turboprop aircraft, wide-body jets, as well as the custom-built water bombers and, finally, both large and small helicopters with tanks or under-slung loads.

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The West Coast Main Line, which runs from London Euston to Glasgow Central with branches to Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool, has historically been Britain's most important trunk route, giving it a rich and interesting history, not just in terms of motive power and rolling stock, but also when considering the politics of its construction and operation. This book gives a flavour of the many varieties of locomotives and other rolling stock that have operated over the West Coast Main Line, including details of its creation and operation. Utilising maps and drawings, useful information on line speeds and gradients is also provided. With over 110 images, this volume gives an all-encompassing history of locomotive haulage on the West Coast Main Line.

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Advances in aerodynamics and jet engine technology after World War Two led to the RAF Air Staff producing an Operating Requirement (OR229) for a bomber that could use these new technologies. To meet this requirement, the Avro Initial Projects team adopted a Delta wing design. This was a major change in aircraft design, as little was known about the Delta wing. The design of the Delta wing Vulcan was a major gamble by all concerned. However, it proved an incredibly valuable asset, especially during the Cold War. It was used in both high- and low-level roles and performed some of the longest bombing and anti-radar missions by the RAF during the Falklands War in 1982. After serving over three decades with the RAF, the Vulcan was retired in1984, but it continued display flying with the Vulcan to the Sky Trust until 2015, delighting the public with its noise and manoeuvrability. Fully illustrated with over 150 images, this book explores the history of the Vulcan, from concept to manufacture to service, providing insight from those who developed, designed, and flew it.

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A key component in any armed force, helicopters operate in a range of roles not only previously filled by aircraft but also many that are completely new. Thanks to their ability to go anywhere and operate from locations as diverse as landing pads hacked out of the rainforest or the pitching deck of a frigate, the helicopter adds a flexibility unknown to armed forces in the past. Be it antisubmarine operations by a Merlin, fire support from an Apache, stores delivered by a Puma, evacuation of the wounded by a casevac Chinook or rescue by a Sea King, helicopters offer the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force capabilities unheard of in the history of conflict. From its beginnings as a curiosity with little operational use, Britain's armed forces soon embraced the helicopter with the Whirlwind for the Royal Navy and RAF and the Skeeter for the Army Air Corps. Finding these helicopters limited, it was the advent of the turboshaft that revolutionized the helicopter, with the Belvedere, Wessex, Wasp and Scout bringing new capabilities. The next generation, the Puma, Lynx, Sea King and Chinook, all designed for turboshaft power, made the helicopter an essential machine for all the armed forces and have proven their worth to Britain's forces since the 1970s. In Britain's Military Helicopters, Chris Gibson describes the evolution of the helicopter in British service, from their beginnings with the Sikorsky R-4B test flown by Fleet Air Arm pilots in the USA to the latest Wildcat and Apache Guardian. Lavishly illustrated throughout, this book includes original photographs and images from archives, many of which are previously unpublished. 140 illustrations

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Ethiopian Airlines was founded in 1945 by the Ethiopian government with the assistance of Western airlines. With a fleet of war-surplus Dakotas, the airline took to the sky. At first, only domestic and regional destinations were served, forcing the airline to build makeshift airstrips. However, in 1957, Douglas DC-6s and a Lockheed Constellation were obtained and flights to Europe commenced. In the 1960s, Ethiopian entered the jet age with the purchase of Boeing 720s, later supplemented with 707s. Despite various political, economic, and social obstacles, Ethiopian Airlines continued to invest and grow, expanding to other African countries and further abroad. As passenger transport has declined, as a result of the global pandemic, it currently utilizes its cargo business to transport medical supplies. Illustrated with over 100 images, this book shows how Ethiopian Airlines has remained the powerhouse of African aviation.

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North Korea is often referred to as the 'Hermit Kingdom' and not without reason. However, although tourism to this secretive country is rare, it does happen, albeit with limited numbers. In 2016, North Korea hosted its first ever airshow and invited a number of foreign visitors to watch. Unlike most airshows, this was not an international event, and all participants were from North Korea. There were a selection of aged Soviet-era airliners from the national flag carrier Air Koryo and fighters, helicopters and light transport aircraft from the air force. None of the military aircraft are ever seen outside North Korea's borders, and even the airline only operates limited international services, making the opportunity to see them in action, and photograph them, a once in a lifetime event. This volume is the personal account of a rare visit to one of the most isolated counties in the world. Not only does the book give a fully illustrated look at North Korea's aircraft, both military and civilian, but it then goes on to give a pictorial look at the country itself from a tourist's point of view.

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Carrying on from his first EC Electrics volume, which focussed on classes 86, 87, 90 and Driving Van Trailers (commonly known as DVTs), this book examines classes 91, 92 and DVTs around the UK. The British Rail (BR) Class 91 is a high-speed electric locomotive, which was ordered as a component of the East Coast Main Line modernisation and electrification programme of the late 1980s. The BR Class 92 is a dual-voltage electric locomotive, which was designed specifically to operate services through the Channel Tunnel between Great Britain and France.

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The railway system in Great Britain is the oldest railway system in the world, with the first locomotive-hauled public railways opening in 1825, which was followed by an era of rapid expansion. In direct contrast to this, the 1960s were a period of drastic reduction in the network where a desire for profitability led to the closure of many branch lines that were uneconomic'. However, the 1970s saw a renaissance in passenger services, with the introduction of InterCity 125 trains and other high-speed additions. In this book, illustrated with over 180 images, Arthur Wilson closely examines the period of 197478.

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Innovations in kit and personal equipment have evolved to keep pace with the ever-improving technology and performance of aircraft. Over the last one hundred years, aviation has gone through some considerable changes, and as aircraft designs improved, so too did the kit used by pilots and crew. Many of these changes were driven by safety. As aircraft flew faster and higher, the pressure placed on the pilots increased. Aircrew needed protection from the elements, high altitude and the effects of G. It features detailed studies of the kit in isolation and also showcases kit in the correct historical context, including authentic re-enactments with aircraft of the period. With over 120 images, this book aims to tell the story of RAF kit development using brand new images of original and authentic replica kit, as it would have been worn by RAF aircrew throughout history.

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This book features over 180 images of locomotives from classes 2027, operating across the UK.

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Delta Air Lines is one of the world''s largest and most successful carriers, with a fleet of over 900 aircraft and destinations around the world. It is also an airline that is the result of many mergers and acquisitions in its almost hundred-year history. This book charts the history of Delta from its founding as Huff Daland Dusters in 1925, through to the present-day carrier with its modern fleet of latest generation airliners. It also looks at some of the airlines that have become part of Delta, such as Northeast Airlines, Chicago & Southern, Western Airlines, and Northwest Airlines. As well as looking at the mainline carrier of today and its history, it also explores the histories of these constituent airlines, as well as the Delta Connection feeder airline and its past. With over 140 images, this book presents Delta Air Lines, from its very start to its current position in the aviation world.

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