The First Airplane Diesel Engine: Packard Model DR-980 of 1928

In this richly illustrated account, the curator of flight propulsion brings listeners into the pioneering world of the Packard diesel aircraft engine of 1928. Through archival photographs, drawings, and contemporary brochures, the narrative traces the engine’s rapid development—from its one‑year design sprint to its debut in the National Air Museum’s collection. Listeners will hear the technical details that made the 225‑horsepower unit stand out, including its weight‑to‑power ratio and the innovative air‑pressure starting system.

The book also weaves personal recollections from the pilots and engineers who flew and tested the engine, offering a vivid sense of the excitement and challenges of early diesel aviation. By examining test reports from both Packard and the U.S. Navy, the author highlights the remarkable fuel economy and safety benefits that captured worldwide attention. The story concludes with a balanced look at the engine’s strengths and the design flaws that ultimately limited its commercial success.