This meticulously researched volume is a must in the library of any aviation buff: the most comprehensive descriptive and illustrated history of military and civilian aircraft and their pilots (men and women) to increase the range and endurance of their aircraft. Beginning with the proof of concept efforts to establish the airplane as a true flying machine from 1900 to WWI, it then delves into civilian and military efforts by country, with the civilian effort mainly for personal achievement and the military for ultimately developing the intercontinental bomber and beyond. Hundreds of daring civilian flights of the 1920s and '30s are described by nation until the start of WWII. The inflight refuelling mania of the 1930s and pre- and post-WWII military refuelling efforts are covered. Post-WWII civilian aircraft and military fighter distance record attempts are included, as are the efforts of the Cold War and beyond. Also described are airline, seaplane, balloon, glider, hang glider, solar, and human-powered aircraft accounts. AUTHOR: William Wolf is a retired dentist whose consuming 45-year passion is WWII air combat and aircraft, having over 25,000 books and magazines, 1,000s of videos and downloaded CDs, and three miles of microfilm on WWII in his library. Over the years he has taken and collected 1,000s of photographs and rare aircraft manuals.

He is the author of seventeen lengthy and in-depth books and numerous articles on WWII aviation history, aircraft, and equipment. 585 b/w photos.