Overview

This book is a truly remarkable account that captures the atmosphere, thrills and danger of the pioneering days of aviation. Howard Pixton was flying for A V Roe at Brooklands in 1910 when S F Cody at Laffan's Plain tried to persuade him to join him. But in 1911 he test flew A V Roe's 'tractor biplane, the forerunner of the 504. By now acknowledged as the first professional test pilot, he left A V to join Bristols and for two years demonstrated new models to dignitaries across Europe. In 1913 he joined Tommy Sopwith and in 1914 he became the first Briton in a British plane to win an international race, the coveted Schneider Trophy. This gave Britain air supremacy and Howard was feted as the finest pilot in the World. Sopwith's Tabloid aircraft developed into the 'Pup', and then into the 'Camel'. Throughout The Great War Pixton test flew many of the rapid evolving designs. For a biography of an early aviation pioneer of the top rank, this book cannot be bettered. AUTHOR: Stella Pixton is Howard's daughter and she draws on family papers to tell the story of her Father's life as a man and aviator. She runs a popular business on the Isle of Man where she is well known as a colourful character. She is represented by her son, Robert Dallas. 32 b/w illustrations

Full Product Details

9781526796899

Table of Contents

Reviews

...these pioneering days of flying are often overlooked so it is good to see this book shed light on man's first attempts at flight and the birth of the constant quest for aerial speed. -- Air Classics a refreshing look at British aviation prior to World War I.....a personal view of the early evolution of aviation in Great Britain. It is highly recommended as a primary source from the recollections of an aviator who evolved into a legend. -- Over the Front, Autumn 2015 Although this book is a biography, it reads more as an autobiography, as it is written in the first person. It reads as if Howard is sitting in front of you, and telling you his story. his presentation works quite well and is a wonderful way to experience an enthralling life in aviation history. Stella Pixton, being Howard's daughter, certainly has a close relationship with the subject of her book, and she quite ably relates her knowledge to the reader. It's a great story- very well told. For any aviation history enthusiast, particularly interested in the early days, this book is a must read. -- Logbook

"""...these pioneering days of flying are often overlooked so it is good to see this book shed light on man's first attempts at flight and the birth of the constant quest for aerial speed.""-- ""Air Classics"" ""a refreshing look at British aviation prior to World War I.....a personal view of the early evolution of aviation in Great Britain. It is highly recommended as a primary source from the recollections of an aviator who evolved into a legend.""-- ""Over the Front, Autumn 2015"" ""Although this book is a biography, it reads more as an autobiography, as it is written in the first person. It reads as if Howard is sitting in front of you, and telling you his story. his presentation works quite well and is a wonderful way to experience an enthralling life in aviation history. Stella Pixton, being Howard's daughter, certainly has a close relationship with the subject of her book, and she quite ably relates her knowledge to the reader. It's a great story- very well told. For any aviation history enthusiast, particularly interested in the early days, this book is a must read.""-- ""Logbook"""

Author Information

Stella Pixton is Howards daughter and she draws on family papers to tell the story of her Fathers life as a man and aviator. She runs a popular business on the Isle of Man where she is well known as a colourful character.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available