Introduction to Aircraft Design

Cambridge Aerospace #11

by John P. Fielding

Here is an accessible introduction to the fundamentals of civil and military aircraft design. Giving a largely descriptive overview of all aspects of the design process, this well-illustrated account provides an insight into the requirements of each specialist in an aircraft design team. After discussing the need for new designs, the text assesses the merits of different aircraft shapes from micro-lights and helicopters to super-jumbos and V/STOL aircraft. Subsequent chapters explore structures, airframe systems, avionics and weapons systems. Later chapters examine the costs involved in the acquisition and operation of new aircraft, aircraft reliability and maintainability, and a variety of unsuccessful projects to see what conclusions can be drawn. Three appendices and a bibliography give a wealth of useful information, much not published elsewhere, including simple aerodynamic formulae, aircraft, engine and equipment data and a detailed description of a parametric study of a 500-seat transport aircraft.

Genres: Engineering, Nonfiction, Aviation

278 pages, Paperback

First published October 14, 1999

Reviews

[Avesta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful introduction to aircraft design and aerodynamic structures.

Wouldn't quite call it an introduction since it goes from introductory aeronautics to pretty hefty/complex work.

Also comes with a whole chapter on additional resources like reading lists, relevant data sheets, and so much more - really the whole package...