A History in the Making: 80 Turbulent

The history of American general aviation: its glory days, decline, and rebirth. General aviation is the biggest sector of the aerospace industry in terms of sheer numbers. But even with more planes, airfields, pilots, and flying hours than the military and commercial sectors combined, it's a part of the industry that's also the least understood. All along, it has been waiting for its own history to be written. Here is that history: the first ever devoted to the general aviation business. From the wild and tumultuous beginnings in the wood-and-canvas biplane days, to today's resurgence and the exciting emergence of the ultralight market, author Donald Pattilo covers it all, without fear or favor. Follow the growth of this entrepreneurial, fiercely competitive business, and gain insight into the decisions behind the manufacture of some of the most famous aircraft ever built. All the major developments in design and engineering are also covered, including: agricultural aircraft; turbine power; business jets; helicopters; wartime aircraft; light civilian aircraft. A History in the Making also delves into the product liability crisis that put the indsustry into a tailspin, and other problems plaguing aviation. Finally, Pattillo forecasts the future, and reveals the promising new developments that can lead the business back to the road of prosperity.