Building and Flying an Aeroplane A practical handbook covering the design, construction, and operation of aeroplanes and gliders

"Building and Flying an Aeroplane" by Charles B. Hayward is an early 20th-century guide for amateur aeroplane builders, diving into the mechanics of designing, building, and flying aeroplanes and gliders. The handbook stresses the importance of basing new designs on already successful models. Hayward introduces the reader to the excitement of early aviation, cautioning enthusiasts against untested designs, and describes the book's structure, which includes guidance on model building, gliding, biplane and monoplane design, flying techniques, and safety. This introduction motivates readers by providing a solid foundation before moving onto the more technical aspects of aeroplane construction and flight.