Telling Aircraft Tails: A History of Britain's Airlines in 40 Aircraft

Iv long awaited the publication of this book. I have a specific interest in UK airlines from 1970s onwards and having the authors excellent book on Britiains airlines (vol 3), I was confident this book would be of a similar quality ie very well researched and written with good quality accompanying photos. I am not disappointed.The author takes an interesting and unique approach to discussing Britains airlines, following a specific aircraft of type from its beginings on the British register through to the end o the aircraft. While at first, worrying this would put limitations and a narrow focus, just on timelines rather than a more general discussion on former UK airlines. My concerns here are unfounded as during each chapter, the author incorporates a full discussion of each aircraft type in UK operations.The hardback book is superb quality, thick quality paper and high quality photographs. I have bought a few books on the subject of former UK airlines over the last few years and while I welcome any new Civil aviation book,s, I learnt little from them, often feeling I could have done a better job myself but not with this author. As with his previous books, the writer demonstrates his sound knowledge. I learn more from this author than others. I have studied the subject of UK airlines since mid childhood and myself have a good knowledge, and like I say with some other books I have bought, I have learnt nothing new, often longing to correct certain mistakes but not so with this author. He is so knowledgable and his work so well researched, I have gained further knowledge from this book, which made me realise I do not know all there is to know!This book will take pride of place amongst my other books on Civil aviation. Just as with the other book I have by the author, I know I will often refer back to this book. A worthy addition to any civil aviation library and what a brilliant inspired title too!!

I have several books on airliners in post was Britain and they are very informative . This book has a lot of great information but told slightly differently through the histories of specific aircraft . Viscounts , Vanguards, Comets, Tridents , VC10s, 1-11s along with their American interlopers that were part of the British Airliner scene . So Constellations , DC7s , 707s and DC10s appear . The only omission I can see is the Tristar which is a bit of a surprise given it was used by BA and had RB2-11s . But overall very pleasant read and lots of photos including some gems for me , a Donaldson Britannia or a Cambrian orange 1-11 . Well recommended

Interest in aircraft in this book as I have flown as a passenger in most types mentioned over a 60 years period.Well written and researched

Great way to tell the British post war airline story. Wish I had thought of this unique take, and the author as informative as ever. Nice balance between prose and pictures.

Excellent book, good photos and stories about aircraft of the past, some of which I had the pleasure of working on. Would recommend to any civil aviation enthusiast.

Thoroughly enjoyed the format and a very good memory jerker!

Well worth the wait well written good photos hope there is a follow up the history of British civil aviation in a book.