How to Fly a Spitfire

Marking 90 years since the iconic aircraft first flew in 1936, a fact-packed and infectiously fascinating tribute and guide to take you into the cockpit of the beloved Spitfire. Concise but expertly written sections by Norwich-based aircraft historian Hattie Hern explore the history of the Spitfire from its initial designs in 1931 through to the last reconnaissance flight from Singapore in 1954; by way of incredible detail on what is was like to build, maintain and fly the aircraft. Practical sections get to grips with pre-flight checks, priming the engines construction, mission types, markings, nose art, variants, the meaning of codewords and much more, providing a rare insight into what it was like to experience the aircraft at first-hand. With specially commissioned, two-colour illustrations by Scotland-based contemporary artist Adi Gilbert, annotated diagrams allow the reader to explore control panels, aerial manoeuvres, dogfighting tactics, enemy aircraft, what airmen wore, plus timelines and aviation heritage. A must-read for any fan of aviation and anyone bewitched by the elegant elliptical wings and unforgettable roar of the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine.

Hardback
23.5 x 17.5cm
191 pages
Illustrated throughout with 2-colour illustrations and diagrams
FSC accredited paper