From Props to Jets: Commercial Aviation's Transition to the Jet Age 1952-1962

Although the years from 1952 to 1962 saw the rise and dominance of luxurious piston-powered airliners like the Douglas DC-7, Lockheed Constellation, and Boeing Stratocruiser, revolutionary new jet airliners soon rendered them obsolete. Aircraft like the Boeing 707, Douglas DC-8, and Convair 880 quickly shrank travel times around the world in half as the traveling public enthusiastically embraced the new and very futuristic jet age. This book celebrates that exciting time period with an in-depth look at all the aircraft that made commercial jet flight possible, comparing these radical new jetliners with the classic propeller-driven aircraft that preceded them. By using stunning original photography, ads, and graphics, this book beautifully captures the unique feel of that magical era by featuring the very best in rare aviation nostalgia. Additionally, the book offers accurate technical detail and rich historical perspective.