This is a unique account of the development and operational use of air-to-air flight refuelling since its early beginnings in the USA and the UK to the equipment that is in use today. The author draws upon his life-long career as senior design engineer with the successful British company In-Flight Refuelling who were responsible for the development of the hose and drogue technique now preferred by many of the world's air forces. The story begins in the early 1920s when the art of air refuelling was part of the Barn Storming record-breaking attempts that were popular in the USA. It continues into the late thirties when successful experiments were made. Amazingly, the Royal Air Force were not interested in pursuing this great technical advantage during World War II and it was the USAAF who requested the British invention to experiment with on their B–17s and B-24s. The Korean War saw extended use of operational air-to-air refuelling for the first time and now the 'tanker fleet' is an essential unit in major air-forces around the world.

A photographic look at the history and development of the difficult and delicate process of in-flight refuelling.

Proceedings of a symposium co-sponsored by the Air Force Historical Foundation and the Air Force History and Museums Program. The symposium covered relevant Air Force technologies ranging from the turbo-jet revolution of the 1930s to the stealth revolution of the 1990s. Illustrations.

This volume examines the theory and practice of air power from its earliest inception.

Ever wondered about certain aspects at the airport? Perplexed at the mysterious practices in an aircraft? Have you thought about knowing the how and why but were put-off by the enormity and complexity of the subject? Well, here’s 101 Flying Secrets that enlightens you with trivia and exciting things that you never knew about flying and aviation, particularly about the day-to-day flight operations that you experience as a passenger. This book attempts to answer questions on complex and humongous topics with simple, demystified, bite-sized nugget explanations that will engross and enlighten you. Along with the vivid imagery used in the book, the QR codes offer a visual treat and help one peek into the fascinating world of aviation. Within this book, you’ll discover answers to questions like: If aircraft are so safe, why wear seatbelts? Why are aircraft painted white? How fast can an aircraft be evacuated? Do aircraft dump fuel mid-air? What is airport curfew? What is the fate of retired aircraft? … and more. If you have always wondered at the marvels of aviation, pondered on what goes into making a journey pleasant and safe, 101 Flying Secrets is for you.