John "Cat's-Eyes" Cunningham

In an action-packed life John Cunningham has attained a legendary status which few have equalled. His wartime fame as an outstanding night-fighter ace was followed by a long career in test flying during the exciting post-war period when the jet engine was developed to power both military and civil aircraft. As Chief Test Pilot for the de Havilland Aircraft Company he was at the leading edge of the quest for supersonic flight and in the development of the Comet —the world's first jet airliner.
John Cunningham is utterly modest, self-effacing and largely unaware of the inspirational effect he has on people. These qualities have contributed to his dislike of any form of self-glory. This biography is the first book to record his life and flying career and has been written with his full cooperation and help. It reveals his total dedication, absolute professionalism and coolness in the face of momentous and challenging events.
As 'Cat's-Eyes Cunningham' he became a household name during the bombing blitz of Britain, symbolising the growing effectiveness of the RAF's embryonic defending night-fighter force. Few knew of his major role in perfecting the operational use of radar interception. He was the first squadron pilot in the world to shoot down an enemy aircraft using radar. His partnership with Jimmy Rawnsley, his navigator,
provides a fascinating insight into the air war under the cover of darkness.
As the story unfolds, Cunningham's career as Chief Test Pilot of the great de Havilland Company leads through triumphs and disasters, which he faces in a characteristic style typified by the Comet and Trident episodes. In later retirement, financial misfortune struck in the Lloyds of London insurance debacle, and he also suffered a bout of ill health. Yet he continues to carry on his work for charitable aviation institutions. As he quietly says to his friends 'It's nice to be able to put something back in'.



by John Golley
Published by Airlife 1999 1st edition. 225pp illustrated, index, appendix, bibliography. 16x24 mint, in price clipped d/j.



see terms and conditions for further delivery info.

Note:
"Long" descriptions, where shown, may have been taken from the book's dust jacket notes, and as such are relevant to the date of publication (e.g. any references to "new edition" "previously unpublished photographs" etc.) and not the present.

other titles which may be of interest:
(these books may be in different sections of our store; use the section navigation on the right of this page, or your browser's "back" button to return here)

Nightfighter £16.00 find out more

UK Flight Testing Accidents 1940-71 £80.00 find out more