Learning to fly in the U.S. Army : a manual of aviation practice

A concise, practical guide written for aspiring pilots who need to master the essentials of flight without wading through dense theory. It opens with a brief survey of aviation’s recent history, highlighting the key experiments and pioneers whose work laid the foundation for modern aircraft. The early chapters then introduce the different types of military planes and the basic principles that keep them aloft, giving readers a clear picture of how lift, control, and stability work together.

The remainder of the manual shifts to hands‑on instruction, covering everything from pre‑flight checks and rigging to cross‑country navigation and field handling. Clear explanations of fuselage alignment, material selection, and routine inspections equip trainees with the confidence to operate and maintain their machines safely. Written in an accessible style, the book balances accuracy with brevity, making it an ideal reference for anyone transitioning quickly into Army aviation.