Adventures in Flying

Adventures in Flying is a collection of human interest aviation stories, some of which seem unbelievable. It is a blend of adventure, history, pathos, humor, and the indomitable spirit of those who fly.

Aviation is a fascinating subject full of incredible achievements from the Wright Brothers’ first flight to supersonic passenger service. It’s an activity that has bred more than its share of unforgettable heroes.

The book is unique in that it takes a broad view of flying, not focusing exclusively on any one segment of flying. These stories focus in on every aspect of the world of flight: fixed wing aircraft, gliders, ultralights, balloons, helicopters, blimps and dirigibles. There is even a chapter on sky diving.

Aviation books seldom discuss the many ways in which aviation contributes to the welfare of the community and the nation. Adventures in Flying has several chapters which do just that. One chapter is devoted to heart-wringing stories about Mercy Flights. Another includes a story describing the work helicopters did in rescuing people from a flood. One chapter is devoted to disabled people, some of whom can’t walk, but they can fly! There is a chapter on how aviation has helped businesses grow and thrive.

The stories in this book present segments of aviation history, some of which you have never heard or read before because they come straight from old-timers who were directly involved and never told their stories before. There are accounts of raw courage, of overcoming incredible obstacles, stories of individuals whose selfless sacrifices have helped sick people in serious trouble.

Many of these stories you will want to re-read ... and re-tell.

Reviews:
"Adventures in Flying is a fascinating collection of aviation stories, many of which are just incredible. Whether you are a pilot or have little knowledge of aviation, these tales will hold you spellbound. No matter what your current level of interest is in flying, this book will give you a fresh, new perspective. It is a book that will stick with you. There are chapters you will want to read over and over."
    Bob Hoover, World War II fighter pilot, POW, test pilot, legendary air show performer

"These unusual flying stories, plus the editorial perspectives introducing each story, create an immensely readable and truly inspiring anthology of flight. It is a "must read" for pilots and non-pilots alike. There is history, humor and inspiration within the pages of the book."
    Jack Olcott, former president of the National Business Aviation Association, aeronautical engineer, aviation consultant

"Elliott’s collection of vignettes is in the style of Ernest K. Gann’s masterpiece, Fate is the Hunter, and similarly gives aviation a heart and a soul. It has been a long time since I have read flying stories written with such warmth and passion, feelings that most pilots experience, but are unable to express this well. Kudos for such exceptional writing."
    Barry Schiff, Contributor, AOPA Pilot, author, lecturer, TWA captain (retired)

About the Author:
Jack Elliott has been an aviation writer for more than 40 years. He wrote an aviation column in the Sunday Star-Ledger (Newark, N.J.), which ran for more than 38 years, which is believed to be the longest running column ever devoted to the world of flying.

Over the years he has received dozens of awards, including three journalism awards from the NBAA (National Business Aviation Association), a Presidential Citation and the Max Karant Award for Lifetime Excellence in Aviation Coverage, from the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association), a Journalism Award from NATA (National Air Transportation Association) and a Writing Award from the Aviation/Space Writers Association, among others.

He was inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame of New Jersey in 1986.  His articles have appeared in dozens of aviation magazines. He holds a commercial pilot’s license with instrument, glider and single-engine seaplane ratings.

by Jack Elliott (Author), Phil Boyer (Foreword)
Hardcover: 516 pages
Publisher: Alexander & Ray; 1st edition (November 6, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0615132944
ISBN-13: 978-0615132945
Book Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.2 x 1.5 inches