Meteor Boys: True Tales from the Operator's of Britain's First Jet Fighter - From 1944 to Date

(Paperback)

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Description

As Britain's first jet fighter, the Gloster Meteor has had a remarkably varied and lengthy life. But whilst many books have focused on its development and service history, the time has come to hear the personal experiences of its air and ground crews. By interviewing over forty veterans, author Steve Bond has written an incredibly detailed insight into this iconic aircraft, which is supported by anecdotes and accounts from those who knew it best. One example is Alan McDonald who described the Meteor as 'a bit unforgiving if you got it wrong, as many pilots found out to their cost, especially on one engine, but I must admit I got to like it very much - it was a great adrenalin rush.' Alongside these entertaining anecdotes are details of the Meteor's origins and developments. Starting with the first deliveries in 1944 working through to the present day, Steve Bond documents the diverse role which the Meteor has had. From use in operations against the V1, photo-reconnaissance missions, as a training machine and later a display aircraft - particular attention is given to its major service period of the 1950s through to the early 1960s. The book will also feature photographs never seen before in print. This detailed history of this iconic and much loved jet fighter will appeal to all aviation fans. AUTHOR: Dr Steve Bond is a life-long aviation professional and historian. He served in the Royal Air Force for twenty-two years as an aircraft propulsion technician, with tours on many different aircraft, and was part of the Eurofighter Typhoon project team in the MoD. A fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, he is also the author of many magazine articles and books including: Heroes All, Special Ops Liberators (with Richard Forder), Wimpy, Meteor Boys and Javelin Boys for Grub Street. 30 colour and 3 b/w photographs

Reviews

"Bond's book should appeal to all aviation fans and be a unique addition to the coverage of the Meteor."-- "Air Power History"
"Steve Bond has done a great job with this book with many personal accounts of the people that were involved every day in the life of the Meteor. Highly Recommended."-- "IPMS/USA"

Author Bio

A life-long aviation professional and historian, Dr Steve Bond has spent over 40 years working in the industry. He served in the Royal Air Force for 22 years as an aircraft propulsion technician, with tours on many different aircraft, and was part of the Eurofighter Typhoon project team in the MoD. Steve then spent 13 years with City University London as a senior lecturer and course director. He developed and ran the worlds first MSc Air Safety Management programme for aviation professionals and continues to lecture on the subject. He has a PhD in Air Safety Management, is a chartered engineer and a fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. He is also a Freeman of the Honourable Company of Air Pilots and author of many magazine articles and books.