Customer Reviews

Fundamentals of Flight (2nd Edition)

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I just finished reading most of this book in my Introduction to Aeronautics class. This book covers a wide scope of knowledge on aeronautics: history, atmosphere conditions, finite wing theory, 2-dimensional flow analysis, aerodynamic performance, propulsion system, etc. Many of my childhood questions about airplanes are answered in this book in a systematic and scientific way. Meanwhile, as a sophomore who has never taken a fuild dynamic course, I still find this book to be understandable. Of course, this is a result of the clarity and logicality with which Mr. Shevell wrote this book.

However, this book is not complete free of error. The only one that was pointed out in class is on page 284 equation (15.36); under the square root sign an air density at sealevel should be added.

Also, it would be much nicer if formula of maximum range and endurance are given in the book instead of letting the readers to derive these formular by themselves.

But still, I recommend this book for anyone who is interested in getting an introduction to some professional knowledge on aeronautics, especially those who have not taken a fuild dynamics course. For those who have, maybe there are better introduction books out there that assume more previous knowledge.

We are currently using this book in our Intro to Aero and Astronautics class. I have found this book to be quite helpful in understanding the basic principles of flight. It goes over the history, and all the basics of flight. Although the history of the airplane (Chapter 1) is the worst section in the book because it never ends, the rest of the book is great. They go into some depth of 2-D flow, Infinite and Finite wings, Supersonic flow, wind tunnels, and Performance. Out of all the other books I have, this is the best. I would strongly suggest you buy this book if you have the class, not just borrow it from the library because you will need this as you continue with your Aerospace Engineering Career. Take care all. And Go Billikens!