Jetliners of the Red Star

This book covers the story of Soviet jetliners, including the Tupolev Tu-104, Ilyushin Il-62, Tu-144, Tu-154, Il-86/-96, and Yak-40, and the evolution of commercial aviation and aero engineering behind the Iron Curtain.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 05 June 2018
Publisher: Astral Horizon Press

This book is a comprehensive account of every jetliner produced by the Soviet Union, including notable models such as the Tupolev Tu-104, the Ilyushin Il-62, and the Tu-144, which was a supersonic rival to Concorde. It also delves into other significant aircraft like the Tu-154, the Il-86/-96 jumbo jet, and the Yak-40 and -42, which were the world's first regional jets.

The political landscape underwent a significant transformation during the era covered by the book, which coincided with the introduction of the Tu-204. This aircraft played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the old Soviet era and the modern age.

The book offers a captivating narrative that explores the history of commercial aviation and aero engineering behind the Iron Curtain. It is accompanied by stunning illustrations taken from Russian archives by Charles Kennedy, one of aviation's most renowned writers. This work is not only a treasure for aviation enthusiasts but also provides a fascinating insight into Soviet history, European socialism, and the evolution of technology.

The Tupolev Tu-104, often referred to as the "Tupolev Tu-104," was a Soviet passenger jet that made its maiden flight in 1968. It was the world's first successful passenger jet and played a significant role in the development of commercial aviation. The Tu-104 was designed by a team led by Andrei Tupolev and featured a twin-engine configuration. It was known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and reliable performance.

The Ilyushin Il-62, also known as the "Ilyushin Il-62M," was Aeroflot's flagship aircraft and was in service with the airline from 1971 to 2017. It was a twin-engine jet that was designed to carry a large number of passengers and was known for its reliability and efficiency. The Il-62 was also equipped with advanced technology, including a glass cockpit and advanced navigation systems.

The Tu-144, also known as the "Tupolev Tu-144," was a supersonic passenger jet that was developed by the Soviet Union in the late 1960s. It was a rival to Concorde and was designed to travel at speeds of up to 2.5 times the speed of sound. The Tu-144 was a technologically advanced aircraft that featured a swept wing design and a powerful engine. However, it was also plagued by technical problems and was never able to enter commercial service.

The Tu-154, also known as the "Tupolev Tu-154M," was a Soviet passenger jet that was in service with Aeroflot from 1976 to 2003. It was a medium-sized jet that was designed to carry a large number of passengers and was known for its reliability and comfort. The Tu-154 was also equipped with advanced technology, including a glass cockpit and advanced navigation systems.

The Il-86/-96, also known as the "Ilyushin Il-86," was a Soviet twin-engine jet that was in service with Aeroflot from 1970 to 2017. It was a medium-sized jet that was designed to carry a large number of passengers and was known for its reliability and efficiency. The Il-86/-96 was also equipped with advanced technology, including a glass cockpit and advanced navigation systems.

The Yak-40, also known as the "Ilyushin Il-76," was a Soviet regional jet that was in service with Aeroflot and other airlines from 1982 to 2017. It was a small-sized jet that was designed to carry a small number of passengers and was known for its reliability and efficiency. The Yak-40 was also equipped with advanced technology, including a glass cockpit and advanced navigation systems.

The Tu-204, also known as the "Tupolev Tu-204," was a Soviet passenger jet that was in service with Aeroflot from 1988 to 2003. It was a medium-sized jet that was designed to carry a large number of passengers and was known for its reliability and comfort. The Tu-204 was also equipped with advanced technology, including a glass cockpit and advanced navigation systems.

The meltdown of political certainties coincided with the Tu-204, which was able to form a bridge out of the old Soviet era into the current age. The Tu-204 was able to operate in a wide range of conditions, including remote and challenging airports, and was able to provide a reliable and comfortable service to passengers.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive account of every jetliner produced by the Soviet Union, including notable models such as the Tupolev Tu-104, the Ilyushin Il-62, and the Tu-144. It also delves into other significant aircraft like the Tu-154, the Il-86/-96 jumbo jet, and the Yak-40 and -42. The book offers a captivating narrative that explores the history of commercial aviation and aero engineering behind the Iron Curtain. It is accompanied by stunning illustrations taken from Russian archives by Charles Kennedy, one of aviation's most renowned writers. This work is not only a treasure for aviation enthusiasts but also provides a fascinating insight into Soviet history, European socialism, and the evolution of technology.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 180 x 248 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780993260438