While not the first aircraft manufacturer in Britain, Bristol had the
distinct advantage of being created by a well-established businessman,
rather than an enthusiastic aviator, by the name of Sir George White.
Bristol grew rapidly, from a few hangars at the influential Larkhill in
Wiltshire to a new site at Filton, and, up to 2012, was one of the key
aviation design, development and manufacturing locations in Britain.
Thanks to the many talented designers, engineers, test pilots, not to
mention the vision of Sir George over a century ago, Bristol has made
its mark on the aviation industry with revolutionary aircraft, and a
number of firsts and records along the way. Both military and civilian
aircraft and the engines, piston, turboprop and jet have benefited from
the standard in engineering excellence that was set on the hallowed turf
of Filton. This book explores the history of the company, and the
aircraft that it produced.