This book is a non-technical account of the history and development of aviation, with a focus on the accomplishments of pioneering aviators and the impact of aviation on society. The author's objective is to inspire readers to take an interest in the art of flight and to highlight the potential for individuals to participate in the progress of aviation. The book acknowledges the rapid pace of development in aviation, particularly during the time of the Great War, and presents a general overview of the achievements of military and naval pilots. The author emphasizes that aviation is not just a concern for a select few, but a movement in which everyone can play an active and informed role.

In the pantheon of air power spokesmen, Giulio Douhet holds center stage. His writings, more often cited than perhaps actually read, appear as excerpts and aphorisms in the writings of numerous other air power spokesmen, advocates-and critics. Though a highly controversial figure, the very controversy that surrounds him offers to us a testimonial of the value and depth of his work, and the need for airmen today to become familiar with his thought. The progressive development of air power to the point where, today, it is more correct to refer to aerospace power has not outdated the notions of Douhet in the slightest In fact, in many ways, the kinds of technological capabilities that we enjoy as a global air power provider attest to the breadth of his vision. Douhet, together with Hugh “Boom” Trenchard of Great Britain and William “Billy” Mitchell of the United States, is justly recognized as one of the three great spokesmen of the early air power era. This reprint is offered in the spirit of continuing the dialogue that Douhet himself so perceptively began with the first edition of this book, published in 1921. Readers may well find much that they disagree with in this book, but also much that is of enduring value. The vital necessity of Douhet’s central vision-that command of the air is all important in modern warfare-has been proven throughout the history of wars in this century, from the fighting over the Somme to the air war over Kuwait and Iraq.

"This paper focuses on professional mastery, which is a critical attribute for success for every member of the 'profession of arms.' Dr Sanu Kainikara explores the elements that comprise the profession of arms from an air force perspective. He explains that an air force, being a technical force, is a collection of sub-elements that achieve technical mastery in areas such as flying, engineering, logistics or administration and that the higher level of professional mastery is achieved only when these elements are synchronised and orchestrated into a professional force that can deliver air power. He goes on to explain that the pinnacle of professional mastery is achieved when an air force plays a distinctive role in the grand strategy of national security ... The paper concludes by highlighting some fundamental truths about air forces maintaining their leading edge through a continuous process of education, learning, introspection and the practical application of knowledge"--P. iii.