Test Pilots

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{detailed description}The public image of the test pilot has changed considerably in the short history of aviation. In the 1930s, Hollywood flying epics suggested a daredevil, hell-raising cowboy type with an equal interest in flying, women and wine - no doubt there were a few around. In the 1950s and 1960s the image changed to the gladiatorial phase, slightly more convincing, of supermen facing fearful odds in attempting to 'break through the sound barrier' as the press were apt to describe transonic flight.
The truth is much more prosaic. From the beginning of powered flight, test pilots have, predominantly, been thoughtful, highly skilled men with analytical minds and, in many cases, an extensive knowledge of aeronautical engineering. The test pilot of today is a similar but much more highly trained individual, with a sound scientific knowledge to enable him to take full advantage of the very complex modem technology which is at his command.
It has for long been the author's opinion that test pilots have been undervalued by most of the firms who employ them and look upon them as just another member of the team. Certainly he is part of a very highly skilled team but, alone among them, he has the responsibility for the continuing safety of an extremely valuable new aeroplane upon which the very existence of the manufacturer may depend. It is this awesome responsibility which the author emphasises.
A number of books have been written which have recorded various aspects of test flying or the careers of certain pilots. This is the first book to attempt to study the progress of British test flying from its early years to the present day to reveal the problems faced by both the manufacturers' and the Service test pilots.
{Author / Publisher / Date}by Don Middleton
published by Willow Books 1985 1st edn. 272pp illustrated, index, bibliography 19x25
{condition}very good, in price clipped d/j.
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