The history of flying is packed with incredible feats of bravery and endurance, human ingenuity and recklesness, mystery, romance and tragedy. From the first hot air balloons of the 18th century to the supersonic jet flights of today, magnificent men (and women) have taken their incredible flying machines ever higher, further and faster.

This collection of wonderfully engaging tales of madness, bravery, inventiveness, disaster and triumph will take every aviation enthusiast on a whirlwind ride.