Understanding Flight, Second Edition

Discover how planes get--and stay--airborne

Now you can truly master an understanding of the phenomenon of flight. This practical guide is the most intuitive introduction to basic flight mechanics available. Understanding Flight, Second Edition, explains the principles of aeronautics in terms, descriptions, and illustrations that make sense--without complicated mathematics. Updated to include helicopter flight fundamentals and aircraft structures, this aviation classic is required reading for new pilots, students, engineers, and anyone fascinated with flight.

Understanding Flight, Second Edition, covers:

Physics of flight

Wing design and configuration

Stability and control

Propulsion

High-speed flight

Performance and safety

Aerodynamic testing

Helicopters and autogyros

Aircraft structures and materials