This new volume from the respected and well-regarded aviation historian
and author Graham M. Simons is sure to appeal to all aviation
enthusiasts, including as it does a wide array of historical sources and
archival information drawn together into one consolidated volume the
closest to a definitive study of the craft than any produced before.
Extensively illustrated throughout, the book features details lifted
directly from enquiry and salvage reports, much of which has never been
published before and offers a unique insight into the failures and
tragedies that blighted the early days of the Comets development, laying
down lessons that were ultimately to benefit later designs. As part of
his research into the book, the author interviewed John Cunningham, the
Comet test pilot who was the first to experience flight at the helms of
the iconic craft. He was also given access to materials belonging to
Harry Povey, the DeHavilland Production Manager. Insights gained from
these two sources add a deeper level of authenticity to the narrative
and a more personalised account of proceedings.
Attention is also paid to the derivative Nimrod design, and the book
features an interview that the author conducted with the aircraft
commander of the last ever Nimrod operational flight. Interviews of this
kind are supplemented by the author's own narrative of proceedings,
setting personal experience within historical context and exploring the
themes and historical topics that the interviews evoke.
