This fascinating guide to how humans mastered the power of flight combines fact-packed, easy-to-read text with colourful illustrations, From hot air balloons and the Wright brothers to today's super-fast jets, this is an introduction to the mechanics and marvels of flight. Each spread has multiple entry points, including an introductory paragraph, illustrations and handy advice.

Includes index.

The forces of flight --The magic of wings -- The power to fly -- Faster than sound -- Steering -- Flight instruments -- Rocket-planes -- Look, no engine! -- The smallest flying machines -- Spinning blades -- Electric aircraft -- The strangest planes.