Description
Author: Paul and Louise Blackah, ISBN: 9780857332240, published by Haynes - H5224, 224 pages, Hardback
- An insight into building, restring and returning Spitfires to the skies.
The Spitfire remains one of the most iconic combat aircraft of all time and to own an airworthy example of this classic fighter is the Holy Grail for many warbird collectors. For an aircraft that first flew more than 70 years ago and which went out of production in the early 1950s, it may seem strange to discover that there is a flourishing industry centred on this aircraft in the 21st century. Scratch-building brand new Spitfires or restoring original examples to airworthy condition has become big business, with aircraft changing hands for several million pounds apiece.
Husband and wife author team Paul and Louise Blackah look into what is required to find a Spitfire suitable for restoration and then return it to the skies. Paul's vast hands-on experience with the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight's Spitfires combined with his contacts in the aircraft restoration community mean he is uniquely placed to give readers a glimpse inside the world of Spitfire building and restoration in the 21st century.
The Haynes Supermarine Spitfire Restoration Manual includes interviews with leading Spitfire builders and restorers as well as containing many new and previously unpublished photographs of Spitfire restorations.
The authors
Aircraft restoration expert Paul Blackah MBE of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is co-author of the Haynes Spitfire, Lancaster, Hurricane, Messerschmitt Bf109 and DC-3 Dakota Manuals. Louise Blackah is also an aircraft enthusiast and has worked with Paul on his other books. They live in Lincolnshire.