A History of the New Aviation: The Development of Paragliding, Hang-gliding, Paramotoring and Microlighting

On May 23, 1971, a hang-gliding gathering took place on a sand dune in southern California, marking the beginning of the New Aviation. German pioneer aviator Otto Lilienthal was the first to prove that manned flight was feasible, and his tragic death in 1896 inspired the American Wright Brothers to conduct their own experiments on a wind-swept beach in Kittyhawk, North Carolina, resulting in the first powered flight on December 17, 1903. The book chronicles the development of this exhilarating sport, featuring exclusive accounts of record-breaking distances, the addition of engines to 'rag wings,' how women broke into the machismo world, and an English girl leading a team that beat all male competitors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2024
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The birth of the New Aviation can be traced back to a hang-gliding gathering held on a sand dune in southern California on May 23, 1971. On that day, the longest flight recorded was a staggering 196 feet, with a mere 11 seconds spent in the air. However, it marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that has witnessed exponential growth worldwide in the years that followed. At its core, the New Aviation embodies the essence of soaring into the sky through one's own skill and determination. It represents the fundamental principles of flight as they were intended, and this captivating story unfolds the development of this exhilarating sport and the pioneering individuals who laid its foundation.

The first among these pioneers was the German aviator Otto Lilienthal. Despite facing numerous fatalities before him, Lilienthal achieved a groundbreaking feat by proving that manned flight was indeed feasible. Prior to his remarkable achievements, flight was merely a dream. Tragically, Lilienthal's life came to an end in 1896, which served as an inspiration for the American Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur. In 1903, on a windswept beach in Kittyhawk, North Carolina, they conducted their own experiments, culminating in the first powered flight on December 17.

The book opens and concludes with two significant tales. The opening chapter delves into the life and untimely demise of Alvin Russell, an Englishman who left an indelible mark on the world of aviation. The closing chapter revolves around the legendary Swiss flyer Didier Favre, who traversed the entirety of the Alps, either by foot or through flight. Within these pages, readers are treated to a treasure trove of captivating stories, many of which revolve around the exploits of mainstream aviators. However, what sets this book apart is the extraordinary feats accomplished by individuals who flew solely with kites and trapeze bars, soaring alongside eagles and teaching orphaned geese to migrate.

The book also offers exclusive accounts of record-breaking distances achieved by adding engines to "rag wings," the challenges faced by women in breaking into the traditionally male-dominated world of aviation, and the remarkable story of an English girl who led a team consisting solely of men and emerged victorious against all odds. A History of the New Aviation stands as the first in-depth narrative to meticulously stitch together the history and evolution of this pastime, which has captured the hearts and imaginations of countless enthusiasts worldwide.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399048583