The Last of The Lightnings

Aviation Books | Military | Post WW2 | Jet Aircraft | The Last of The Lightnings

The Last of The Lightnings

Ref: 3540

Price: £16.00

Not since the Spitfire has an aircraft captured the hearts and imaginations of a generation of fighter pilots in the way that the Lightning did. Unequivocally Britain's most-loved jet fighter, the Lightning legitimately earned its place amongst the celebrated in aviation history.
In continuous front-line service with the Royal Air Force for nearly 30 years, the passing of the Lightning represented the end of an era. It was the last of a rare breed: single seat, entirely British, magnificently over-powered and possessing delightful handling qualities. It was radically different, its vertical twin-engine design, slab-sided fuselage and highly swept wings making it stand apart from all others.
Built by craftsmen, it was a privilege to fly. It has been said that you didn't fly the Lightning - you strapped it to your back and experienced the thrill of a lifetime. But words can do little justice to the sensation of climbing vertically on a column of raw power, breaking the bond between earth and sky. Sadly, Lightnings are no more, but are reduced to lifeless shells sitting in dormant museums or consigned to the role of gate guardian.
This pictorial tribute to the Lightning concentrates on the final two years of front-line service at RAF Binbrook, as seen through the lens of the RAF's last pilot to convert to the type, Flt Lt Ian Black. During this time he was given access to all aspects of the aircraft, both on the ground and in the air and, because of his status as a pilot, fellow squadron aircrew felt totally at ease with his requests for air-to-air photography. This has resulted in a unique collection of stunning colour photographs. Ian Black is probably the best-known fast jet photographer in the RAF today, his material having graced the covers of books and magazines around the world. Several books of his work have also been published.

by Ian Black
Published by PSL 1996 1st edition. 162pp profusely illustrated in colour. 26x26 mint, d/j fine.

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"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jacket notes, and as such are relevant to the date of publication (e.g. any references to "new edition" "previously unpublished photographs" etc.)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.

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