Britain established the world's first aircraft factory in 1909 after the
Short brothers met up with the American Wright brothers and struck a
deal. The industry expanded rapidly to rise to the challenge of World
War One with such thoroughbreds as the Camel and the SE.5. The
post-conflict slump proved to be difficult but classics such as the
Moths, the Hart family and the Gladiator maintained Britain's
leadership. Another war loomed and iconic types such as the Hurricane,
Lancaster, Mosquito, Spitfire and the Meteor jet appeared.
With the return of peace over 20 major manufacturers faced inevitable
contraction. The misguided Bristol Brabazon airliner was a dead end but
the superb de Havilland Comet and Vickers Viscount led the field.
Canberras, Hunters, Lightnings and the V-bombers met the Cold War
confrontation.
For the first time here is a readable, highly-illustrated, examination
of the entire industry; its heritage and the changes it faces in the
21st century, both technical and political. The life and times of the 40
'big names' from Airbus to Westland: aircraft, designers, factories,
failures and successes, mergers and closures are all explained,
supported by statistical tables and copious illustrations. Here is a
celebration of a world class industry that remains at the cutting edge
of excellence.
