Wide-Body: The Triumph of the 747

How in the world do you build a machine that weighs Three-Quarters of a million pounds at take-off to the precision of a fine Swiss Watch? And did they REALLY decide to make the 747 on a handshake during a fishing trip? You gotta be kidding me. The technology needed to build this amazing aircraft was developed over a very short period by men who didn't know it couldn't be done. The airplane that was supposed to be a stop-gap between jet aircraft like the 737 and the SuperSonic jets like the Concorde has developed into one of the most used and most loved airframes of all time. This is the story of the machine and the men who created her, told in a thoroughly engrossing way. You will be drawn into the drama, and it's amazing what you will learn about the history of aircraft while you are. One of my favorite contemporary history books.

This book is a complete history of the stories behind the idea and desire for a large commercial aircraft. It discussess the process of design and why the the Boeing 747 has it majestic shape. It explains how Bill Allen and Juan Tripp "worked together" to bring the idea to Life. It details the pains and triumphs Joe Sutter (project manager) went through to make the the Boeing 747 the safest and largest commerial airliner of it's time. One great book on a great subject!

This book is a great choice to read for anyone, even more so for those interested in commercial aviation. It has elements of drama, and also limits the techno-babble to keep it interesting.

Thoroughly enjoyable for anyone with an interest in aviation or human endevour on a large scale. Not too technical so don't be put off