Review of
Fabulous Flying Boats
A History of the World’s Passenger Flying Boats
By Leslie Dawson
Pen and Sword (www.pen-and-sword.co.uk)
ISBN 9781781591093
RRP GBP £25.00
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The early years of aviation impressed and influenced many nations around the globe. These early years were characterised by pioneering engineers and pilots who experimented with numerous designs. These designs and developments were then accelerated by the demands of the Great War and eventually flying boats were considered.
This class of aircraft was mainly developed after the Great War and the book captures the spirit of dynamism. The book concentrates on passenger carrying flying boats. He details in a clear and vivid manner, often using first hand accounts, of what it was like to be abroad one of these huge vehicles. The experiences of both aircrew and passenger are considered. The military acknowledged the usefulness of these vehicles and they soon requested military boats as well as seconding some designs.
This incredibly well-researched book embraces the early globe-trotting air routes covering America, Europe and the Far East. It draws upon evocative images and accounts from both private and corporate collections, as well as the world’s aviation museums.
These important developments in aeronautical history are given an excellent treatment and this manuscript is bound to become the reference work on this niche of aeronautical history.
January 2014