Fifty Years of Flying Fun

Dive into the exhilarating world of aviation with 'Fifty Years of Flying Fun' by Rod Dean, an absolutely captivating hardback that chronicles an extraordinary journey through more than five decades of flying. This beautifully bound book, measuring 153 x 234 mm and comprising 192 vibrant pages, invites readers to explore the thrilling experiences that shaped a seasoned aviator. From Dean's early days in the RAF, beginning in 1962, to his riveting operational tour in Hunters in Aden, the narrative provides a chronological glimpse into the life of a passionate pilot. Whether tracing the evolution of the Jaguar in Germany or recounting the incredible tales of flying with the Sultan of Oman’s Air Force, each story is infused with humor and adventure. With over 7,000 flight hours across 59 different types of aircraft—and a guaranteed chuckle over the only autopilot equipped plane, Spencer Flack's Mustang—this memoir not only highlights the technical aspects of aviation but also touches on the rich tapestry of flying history. Ideal for both aviation enthusiasts and casual readers alike, 'Fifty Years of Flying Fun' is a treasure trove of insights, perfect for anyone wishing to understand the thrill of flight, the intricacies of vintage aircraft, and the passionate spirit of a pilot who has truly embraced the joy of flying. This book is your gateway to a world where the sky is not the limit but merely the beginning of endless possibilities.

Author: Rod Dean Publisher: Grub Street
Bind: hardback
Dimensions: 153 x 234 mm
Pages: 192
Publication Date: 20-05-2015

Fifty Years of Flying Fun covers, in a roughly chronological order, over fifty continuous years of flying. This ranges from joining the RAF in 1962, through his intriguing first operational tour on Hunters in Aden, the early days of the Jaguar in Germany and, finally in the RAF, an almost outrageous two years flying the Jaguar and Hunter with the Sultan of Oman’s Air Force. His subsequent civil flying has been exclusively in the General Aviation and flying display fields as a flying instructor and well known display pilot, including being involved in many varied and interesting display-related episodes. With in excess of 7,000 flying hours on 59 different types - and only one aircraft (Spencer Flack’s Mustang) with a working autopilot - Rod gives a clear, and largely humorous, insight into the operation of a cross section of piston and jet engine vintage aircraft and his undoubted fifty years of fun since the first solo on 19 March 1963. Fifty Years of Flying Fun is not just a book for the aviation enthusiast, but for anyone wanting to learn about any aspect of flying history through the memoir of a man who lived through it all.