Concept Aircraft: Prototypes, X-Planes and Experimental Aircraft

Concept Aircraft is a digital aviation reference from The Aviation Factfile series, edited by Jim Winchester. This PDF explores the experimental and prototype aircraft that pushed aeronautical engineering into the unknown. As a digital download, it is available instantly after purchase.

From the Bell X-1 to the Soviet Ekranoplan, the book documents research aircraft, testbeds, and prototype concepts from the post-war era. It is designed for aviation enthusiasts, historians, and readers interested in aerospace engineering.

Book Overview

This Aviation Factfile volume surveys prototypes, X-Planes, and experimental aircraft from the post-war era. The book is organized in sections from Airship Industries to Yakovlev, with an introduction covering the history of X-Planes and experimental programs in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the Soviet Union.

Jim Winchester serves as general editor. The book was first published in 2005 by Grange Books and produced by Amber Books Ltd.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• The story of the X-Plane series, from the Bell XS-1 to the X-29 with its forward-swept wings.
• British jet research aircraft such as the De Havilland DH.108 Swallow and the Miles M.52.
• VTOL experiments including the Ryan XV-5A Vertifan and the Hawker P.1127 Kestrel.
• The jet-age revival of flying boats, including the Saunders-Roe Princess and SR.A/1.
• Soviet wing-in-ground-effect aircraft such as the Ekranoplan.
• NASA and NACA research into high-speed, quiet, and vertical take-off technologies.

Why This Book Matters

Concept Aircraft preserves the record of a bold period in aviation history when engineers tested swept wings, swing wings, VTOL layouts, and rocket power. Many of these programs influenced later military and civil aircraft. The book also recalls the public fascination with test pilots and research aircraft during the golden age of flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This product is a digital download, so there is no physical shipping. Access is available immediately after purchase. The PDF can be read on desktop computers, tablets, smartphones, and compatible reading apps. Use Kindle apps or other PDF readers that support large files.

FAQ

Will I receive a physical book?
No, this is a digital PDF download and no physical copy will be shipped.

How soon can I access the book?
Access is available instantly after purchase.

Can I read it on my tablet or phone?
Yes, the PDF works with most tablets, phones, and reading apps.

Add this aviation reference to your digital library and explore the experimental aircraft that helped shape modern flight.

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