20 Best Books On Aviation (2023 Update)

By richie lengel save countless hours sorting through multiple books looking for what you need. this book gives the reader a fresh and fun approach to the complex world of aviation. it brings together every excruciating detail into a single source document that benefits all levels from student to airline captain. easy to read outline format, with bold/underlined text to emphasize the most important words. includes a huge index that makes it effortless to find the information you need. 450 pages, paperback.

Take an action-packed flight through the history of aircraft and the intrepid pioneers who made a dream become reality. uncover the engineering behind more than 800 aircraft models, from military jets to commercial planes. this visual history book captures the fascinating story of aeroplanes and aviation, and how this groundbreaking discovery has influenced the 21st century. inside the pages of this aircraft book, you'll discover: – the history of military and commercial aircraft from all over the world, decade by decade, to the present day in stunning visual detail – comprehensive catalogues highlighting the most important aircraft of each period along with their specifications and unique features – showcases particularly celebrated aircraft – such as the supermarine spitfire and concorde – in beautifully photographed "virtual tour" features – tells the stories of the engineers and manufacturers that created marques like boeing and airbus modern flight has opened the world up to new opportunities and paved the way to the development of advanced research and technology. but, what made it so groundbreaking? this book uncovers the stories behind the first aeroplane models, the development of flight, and brings you to present-day marvels such as the gypsy moth and supermarine spitfire. the aircraft book is filled with stats, facts and photographs that create a visual tour and allows you to see inside key commercial and military aircraft models from the exterior to the cockpit. aviation enthusiasts will also be captivated by the manufacturer of aircraft engines and how famous models like the boeing and lockheed became household names. complete the series dk's the definitive visual history series is an iconic celebration of design and history. packed with fascinating facts and statistics, these high-quality visual guides cover everything from history and notable designs to the people and technology that made it possible. books in this series include the car book, the train book, the tank book, and so much more.

Man's fascination with flight took off in 1903 when the wright flyer flew for a breathtaking 12 seconds. since then, aircraft have become much more sophisticated. now you can discover more than 300 of the most important airplanes of the last 30 years in the encyclopedia of modern aircraft. * this book details some of the finest civil and military aircraft in service today, beginning with classic 1960s commercial airliners like the boeing 747 through the latest military wonder planes like the f-22 raptors. * unique specification tables provide comprehensive information on dimensions, powerplant, performance, and more. * find out how some of the most famous planes in the sky came to fly. what inspired the f-14 tomcat? how will the airbus a380 change the face of commercial travel? climb into the cockpits and design labs and see!

New york times bestseller "this is history at its most immediate and moving… a marvelous and memorable book." –jon meacham "remarkable… a priceless civic gift… on page after page, a reader will encounter words that startle, or make him angry, or heartbroken." –the wall street journal "visceral… i repeatedly cried… this book captures the emotions and unspooling horror of the day." –npr "had me turning each page with my heart in my throat… there's been a lot written about 9/11, but nothing like this. i urge you to read it." –katie couric the first comprehensive oral history of september 11, 2001–a panoramic narrative woven from the voices of americans on the front lines of an unprecedented national trauma. over the past eighteen years, monumental literature has been published about 9/11, from lawrence wright's the looming tower, which traced the rise of al-qaeda, to the 9/11 commission report, the government's definitive factual retrospective of the attacks. but one perspective has been missing up to this point–a 360-degree account of the day told through the voices of the people who experienced it. now, in the only plane in the sky, award-winning journalist and bestselling historian garrett graff tells the story of the day as it was lived–in the words of those who lived it. drawing on never-before-published transcripts, recently declassified documents, original interviews, and oral histories from nearly five hundred government officials, first responders, witnesses, survivors, friends, and family members, graff paints the most vivid and human portrait of the september 11 attacks yet. in new york city, first responders confront a scene of unimaginable horror at the twin towers. from a secret bunker underneath the white house, officials watch for incoming planes on radar. aboard the small number of unarmed fighter jets in the air, pilots make a pact to fly into a hijacked airliner if necessary to bring it down. in the skies above pennsylvania, civilians aboard united flight 93 make the ultimate sacrifice in their place. then, as the day moves forward and flights are grounded nationwide, air force one circles the country alone, its passengers isolated and afraid. more than simply a collection of eyewitness testimonies, the only plane in the sky is the historic narrative of how ordinary people grappled with extraordinary events in real time: the father and son working in the north tower, caught on different ends of the impact zone; the firefighter searching for his wife who works at the world trade center; the operator of in-flight telephone calls who promises to share a passenger's last words with his family; the beloved fdny chaplain who bravely performs last rites for the dying, losing his own life when the towers collapse; and the generals at the pentagon who break down and weep when they are barred from rushing into the burning building to try to rescue their colleagues. at once a powerful tribute to the courage of everyday americans and an essential addition to the literature of 9/11, the only plane in the sky weaves together the unforgettable personal experiences of the men and women who found themselves caught at the center of an unprecedented human drama. the result is a unique, profound, and searing exploration of humanity on a day that changed the course of history, and all of our lives.

This official federal aviation administration (faa) handbook provides basic knowledge essential for pilots on topics like decision making, aerodynamics, flight controls, weather theory, airport operations, and more. – this updated handbook introduces pilots to the broad spectrum of knowledge that will be needed as they progress in their pilot training. written for the pilot preparing for a remote, sport, private, commercial, or flight instructor pilot certificate, it is a key reference for all the information necessary to operate an aircraft and to pass the faa knowledge exam and practical test. the table of contents includes:introduction to flying – aeronautical decision-making – aircraft construction – principles of flight – aerodynamics of flight – flight controls – aircraft systems – flight instruments – flight manuals and other documents – weight and balance – aircraft performance – weather theory – aviation weather services – airport operationsairspacenavigationaeromedical factors – this handbook introduces readers to flying and a history of flight, then explores the role of the faa, criteria for earning the various pilot certificates, how to plan their flight education, and the examinations associated with earning a pilot certificate. – beginners and advanced pilots alike will find the pilot's handbook of aeronautical knowledge to be their primary resources for all things aviation. – in addition to the most current faa information, this edition features full-color drawings and photographs, an index, a glossary, and appendices of common acronyms, abbreviations and notam contractions, and airport signs.

Ernsting's aviation and space medicine applies current understanding in medicine, physiology and the behavioural sciences to the medical challenges and stresses that are faced by both civil and military aircrew, and their passengers, on a daily basis. the fifth edition of this established textbook has been revised and updated by a multi-disciplinary team of experienced contributors, and includes new chapters on space physiology and medicine, passenger safety, rotary wing operation by land and sea, and uavs. it remains the recommended textbook for those studying for the diploma in aviation medicine of the faculty of occupational medicine of the royal college of physicians, recognized worldwide as a standard in the field, and for similar overseas qualifications. ernsting's aviation and space medicine remains an essential companion for all civil and military aviation medicine practitioners, both when preparing for professional examinations and in daily practice, and for those in the many disciplines of the behavioural and life sciences that include some study of aviation, its physiology and related issues. it is also recommended reading for those with a wider interest in the medical problems of professional or recreational flying, air transport and the aviation industry.

Captain laura savino takes you directly into the cockpit for an exclusive look into the boy's club of airline pilots-told through the eyes of the first female pilot many of them ever flew with. "no math," laura's counselor told her in high school. "that would ruin your gpa." laura had other plans. one teenage act of rebellion changed everything for her at a time when stem opportunities for women were rare. if passengers on a commercial jet had trouble imagining a woman flight engineer – which laura became – imagine their disbelief to see her as the pilot flying their widebody jet around the world. she exposes both the harsh truths and the exciting adventure of her years in the airline industry as a commercial pilot, reveals the emotional impact of 9/11 on pilots, and writes honestly about what it means to be a working mother while keeping her dreams alive. laura's powerful story is a blueprint for how to defy expectations and follow your inner compass to do things you never thought possible.

New york times business best seller – a suspenseful behind-the-scenes look at the dysfunction that contributed to one of the worst tragedies in modern aviation: the 2018 and 2019 crashes of the boeing 737 max. an "authoritative, gripping and finely detailed narrative that charts the decline of one of the great american companies" (new york times book review), from the award-winning reporter for bloomberg.boeing is a century-old titan of industry. it played a major role in the early days of commercial flight, world war ii bombing missions, and moon landings. the planemaker remains a cornerstone of the u.s. economy, as well as a linchpin in the awesome routine of modern air travel. but in 2018 and 2019, two crashes of the boeing 737 max 8 killed 346 people. the crashes exposed a shocking pattern of malfeasance, leading to the biggest crisis in the company’s history—and one of the costliest corporate scandals ever. how did things go so horribly wrong at boeing? flying blind is the definitive exposé of the disasters that transfixed the world. drawing from exclusive interviews with current and former employees of boeing and the faa; industry executives and analysts; and family members of the victims, it reveals how a broken corporate culture paved the way for catastrophe. it shows how in the race to beat the competition and reward top executives, boeing skimped on testing, pressured employees to meet unrealistic deadlines, and convinced regulators to put planes into service without properly equipping them or their pilots for flight. by bloomberg investigative journalist peter robison, who covered boeing as a beat reporter during the company’s fateful merger with mcdonnell douglas in the late ‘90s, this is the story of a business gone wildly off course. at once riveting and disturbing, it shows how an iconic company fell prey to a win-at-all-costs mentality, threatening an industry and endangering countless lives.

"fly the wing" has been an indispensable comprehensive textbook on operating transport-category airplanes for more than 45 years. pilots planning a career in aviation will find this book provides important insights not covered in other books. written in an easy, conversational style, this useful manual progresses from ground school equipment and procedures to simulators and actual flight. along the way, the author covers the physical, psychological, and technical preparation pilots needin order to acquire an airline transport pilot (atp) certificate while maintaining the highest standards of performance. "fly the wing" serves as a reference to prepare for the atp faa knowledge exam.although not intended to replace training manuals, this book is by itself a course in advanced aviation. with clear explanations and in-depth coverage, it has been described as a "full step beyond the normal training handbook." pilots who want additional knowledge in the fields of modern flight deck automation, high-speed aerodynamics, high-altitude flying, speed control, takeoffs, and landings in heavy, high-performance aircraft will find it in this resource. this new fourth edition includes access to additional online resources, including a flight terms glossary, printable quick reference handbooks, and numerous supporting graphics.

"this book prepares an airline pilot candidate in all areas relating to their desired occupation. being an airline pilot demands a well-rounded candidate – someone who is skilled in the operation and handling of aircraft and of utmost professional and moral character. this book covers many of the technical areas for the airline transport pilot, while highlighting what it means to be an aviation professional. the federal aviation administration (faa) outlines the content required by the airline transport pilot – certification training program (atp-ctp) in advisory circular (ac) 61-138. the atp-ctp ground school must be completed prior to taking the atp knowledge exam. this book covers all the topics required by this ac and provides practical advice on topics pertinent to a newly hired airline pilot including: aerodynamics with a focus on high altitude operations, stall prevention and recovery, and general upset recovery techniques for transport category aircraft; pertinent weather considerations with emphasis placed on abnormal weather conditions, icing, and severe weather avoidance; general operating considerations when working for an airline; physiological considerations, checklist procedures, operational control, handling equipment failures, operating turbine engines, transport category performance, and automation. concludes with chapters dedicated to leadership and professionalism, crew resource management, safety culture. and regulations, including sleep and duty regulations as well as pertinent operating rules that differ from general aviation regulations."–provided by publisher.

Get in and fasten your seatbelt. ready for take-off! have you ever asked yourself why airplane windows have a small hole? why your digestive system makes itself known with particular vigor high up in the air? if turbulence is actually as dangerous as it feels? wouldn't it be great to have these questions answered by someone who actually sits up front in the cockpit? impossible? not anymore! experienced pilot mark greenfield takes you on board with him and provides exciting insights into the world of flying.the various topics explained in an easy-to-understand manner are ideal for all those interested in aviation. no matter whether you have never set foot in an airplane or fly regularly – many interesting details are waiting to be discovered!

Ever wondered what goes on inside the cockpit of a passenger plane? ever wanted to know how a jet engine works or what happens if a plane is struck by lightning? since 9/11, flight decks of modern airliners have become off-limits to the flying public. this is despite the fact every year more people take to the skies than ever before.pilot brett manders wants to help you become a savvy traveller by providing insider tips, expert knowledge, and an understanding of what goes on behind the scenes to get you up in the air. all told with a dash of humor, this book will demystify the art of airline travel, address those urban legends, and settle the nerves of any anxious flyers.simple, concise explanations cover a multitude of things passengers have asked brett and his colleagues over the years. what is a small technical delay? can the cabin door be opened mid-flight? how much do pilots really earn and do they get free flights? can you get stuck to the toilet? is it still possible to view the flight deck? brett manders is a pilot with an australian airline. he has over 10,000 hours flying experience on airbus a320, a321, a330 and boeing b787 dreamliner aircraft. praise for behind the flight deck door "brett's uncomplicated, honest, and easy to understand book is a welcome addition on any flight. it offers an enlightening point of view of the all-important necessity of air travel with rare glimpses of the secret world airline pilots inhabit." julie postance, author, breaking the sound barriers "i really enjoyed reading this as it is an easy read, and really relatable and quite entertaining. as a nervous flyer myself it was quite interesting and reassuring to read all the different things that go on behind the scenes and learn about the ins and outs of flying." sarah emerson, nervous flyer "this book has so much valuable knowledge that every passenger wants to know and ask. so many things about aircraft, airlines and airports are such a mystery to many people, it is nice to have it explained is simple terms. after reading, i feel lots of little things that bothered me have been put in perspective and it has helped my fear of flying significantly. nisha sharma, nervous flyer

The exciting part is, you never know what's next. as a ferry pilot, you don't get to choose what airplanes to fly, the destination, or the weather. and you don't get to choose the life-threatening complications. the wilderness in the northern region of the united states and canada is beautiful but non-forgiving. classroom training is useful, but there is no better reward in life than the real experience of successfully flying over the wilderness to destinations most people will never see or go. there are no airport terminals, airline schedules, or rental car services at the most pristine places in the world! 9-1-1 simply doesn't exist! special planning becomes routine, life-saving survival gear is standard equipment. diverting to a local airport while in route to avoid some rough weather, or stop to stretch your legs and have a soda pop, is not an option. it is definitely not for everyone. but if you are willing and capable to step outside, where there are no warning labels that tell you how to wash your hands, in this little so-called safe world, where somebody else is taking you by the hand and leading you through life, the rewards are endless! the journey is never the same. the risks seem high, but are worth the rewards.

The smithsonian national air and space museum holds the country's premier collection of historic aircrafts, but visitors must view these impressive structures at a distance. in the cockpit captures the feeling of helming these historic craft with big, gorgeous four–color photographs that will give flight enthusiasts a true pilot's eye view of many of history's most important domestic and military airplanes, jets, and helicopters. each entry includes archival images of the craft and authoritative text that places each one in the context of the development of aviation technology and world history .

Provides a fascinating at-a-glance guide to every major military aircraft type ever flown, all illustrated with a detailed profile artwork, accompanied by brief details and specifications.

In late may 1927 an inexperienced and unassuming 25-year-old air mail pilot from rural minnesota stunned the world by making the first non-stop transatlantic flight. a spectacular feat of individual daring and collective technological accomplishment, charles lindbergh's flight from new york to paris ushered in america's age of commercial aviation. in the flight of the century, thomas kessner takes a fresh look at one of america's greatest moments, explaining how what was essentially a publicity stunt became a turning point in history. he vividly recreates the flight itself and the euphoric reaction to it on both sides of the atlantic, and argues that lindbergh's amazing feat occurred just when the world—still struggling with the disillusionment of wwi—desperately needed a hero to restore a sense of optimism and innocence. kessner also shows how new forms of mass media made lindbergh into the most famous international celebrity of his time, casting him in the role of a humble yet dashing american hero of rural origins and traditional values. much has been made of lindbergh's personal integrity and his refusal to cash in on his fame. but kessner reveals that lindbergh was closely allied with, and managed by, a group of powerful businessmen—harry guggenheim, dwight morrow, and henry breckenridge chief among them—who sought to exploit aviation for mass transport and massive profits. their efforts paid off as commercial air traffic soared from 6,000 passengers in 1926 to 173,000 passengers in 1929. the flight of the century sheds new light on one of america's fascinatingly enigmatic heroes and most transformative moments.

In late may 1927 an inexperienced and unassuming 25-year-old air mail pilot from rural minnesota stunned the world by making the first non-stop transatlantic flight. a spectacular feat of individual daring and collective technological accomplishment, charles lindbergh's flight from new york to paris ushered in america's age of commercial aviation. in the flight of the century, thomas kessner takes a fresh look at one of america's greatest moments, explaining how what was essentially a publicity stunt became a turning point in history. he vividly recreates the flight itself and the euphoric reaction to it on both sides of the atlantic, and argues that lindbergh's amazing feat occurred just when the world—still struggling with the disillusionment of wwi—desperately needed a hero to restore a sense of optimism and innocence. kessner also shows how new forms of mass media made lindbergh into the most famous international celebrity of his time, casting him in the role of a humble yet dashing american hero of rural origins and traditional values. much has been made of lindbergh's personal integrity and his refusal to cash in on his fame. but kessner reveals that lindbergh was closely allied with, and managed by, a group of powerful businessmen—harry guggenheim, dwight morrow, and henry breckenridge chief among them—who sought to exploit aviation for mass transport and massive profits. their efforts paid off as commercial air traffic soared from 6,000 passengers in 1926 to 173,000 passengers in 1929. the flight of the century sheds new light on one of america's fascinatingly enigmatic heroes and most transformative moments.

This sumptuously illustrated book sweeps through a century of military aviation, covering the milestones and key technological developments. it features the designers and manufacturers who produced the early biplanes, helicopters, vtol and swing-wing aircraft, heavy bombers, giant transporters and stealth intruders.

Here for the first time in a single volume are three of richard bach's most compelling works about flight. from his edgy days as a usaf alert pilot above europe in an armed f84-f thunderstreak during the cold war to a meander across america in a 1929 biplane, bach explores the extreme edges of the air, his airplane, and himself in glorious writing about how it feels to climb into a machine, leave the earth, and fly. only a handful of writers have translated their experiences in the cockpit into books that have mesmerized generations.

This sumptuously illustrated book sweeps through a century of military aviation, covering the milestones and key technological developments. it features the designers and manufacturers who produced the early biplanes, helicopters, vtol and swing-wing aircraft, heavy bombers, giant transporters and stealth intruders.