Airplane Stability and Control

An informal history of the personalities and events surrounding the development of airplane stability and control, written by leaders in the field. The book captures never-before-available impressions from pre-Wright brothers to the present. It is profusely illustrated and includes a core bibliography and brief biographies.

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From the first airplanes that flew for just minutes at a time to today's advanced aircraft, flying qualities have depended on airplane stability and control. This book offers an informal history of the personalities and events surrounding the development of airplane stability and control, both the science and its application to design. The authors, widely known for their contributions to airplane design and development, are especially well positioned to write such a history. Much of the content captures never-before-available impressions of those active in the field, from airplane and glider builders before the Wright brothers right up to the present. Chapters are arranged thematically, dealing with a single subject over its entire history. The book is profusely illustrated with photographs and figures and includes a core bibliography, along with brief biographies of noted stability and control figures. The book is suitable for graduate students and researchers in aerodynamics and aeronautical engineering.