Mechanics of Flight

Mechanics of Flight is an ideal introduction to the basic principles of flight for students embarking on courses in aerospace engineering, student pilots, apprentices in the industry and anyone who is simply interested in aircraft and space flight. Written in a straightforward and jargon-free style, this popular classic text makes the fascinating topic of aircraft flight engaging and easy to understand.

Starting with an overview of the relevant aspects of mechanics, the book goes on to cover topics such as air and airflow, aerofoils, thrust, level flight, gliding, landing, performance, manoeuvres, stability and control. Important aspects of these topics are illustrated by a description of a trial flight in a light aircraft. The book also deals with flight at transonic and supersonic speeds, and finally orbital and space flight.

Key Features This twelfth edition has been fully revised and updated to conform to current teaching practices and to cover recent technical developments in the field. Aspects of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are covered, and additional material on the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is included. Descriptions are aided by the use of a large number of diagrams, illustrations and photographs. Each chapter contains numerous practice questions to test and develop the reader’s understanding of key concepts. A full appendix of numerical questions is supplied together with solutions.

R. H. Barnard PhD, CEng, FRAeS; formerly Principal Lecturer in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire.

D. R. Philpott PhD, CEng, MRAeS; formerly Principal Aerodynamic Specialist at Raytheon Corporate Jets and Reader in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Hertfordshire.