Following the life of this aircraft from its initial inception to the delivery of the first production models, this book begins with Boeing's initial thoughts concerning a new wide-body transport, how the original concept changes over a period of months of discussion, and finally, a description of the final configuration. The reasoning that went into the final design is explored. Many of the new and unique features of this airplane are carefully described. The complex and basically original manufacturing process is examined, as is the logistics system developed to move large subassemblies economically and on time. The many features that Boeing incorporated into the 787 for both safety and greatly increased passenger comfort are all brought forth and explained in layman's language. The book also delves into some of the frustrating problems that the 787 team encountered. Component and flight testing is also included, as are appendices that collect information, such as specifications of the various 787 models and a listing of sales by carrier to date. Throughout the author has tried to relate the story of the Dreamliner with honesty and with a view to who might be reading the book.

A revolutionary commercial propeller transport, the Lockheed Constellation burst on the aviation scene in the early 1940s. Unheralded for the most part, due to wartime secrecy, it finally entered commercial service in 1946, and promptly set new standards for speed, range, reliability, and passenger comfort. The Connie, as it was affectionately known, pioneered new flight paths in many parts of the globe. Connies ultimately flew commercially for more than thirty years, and underwent countless modifications and upgrades during that time. They continued to be utilized by the military as well; in fact, Connies were involved in a number of endeavors that remain shrouded in secrecy to this day. This, then, is the story of a remarkable and distinctive airplane. It is also the story of the people who made the Constellation great, including aviation legends like Howard Hughes and Clarence "Kelly" Johnson. Most importantly, however, it is a story that sheds light on the dynamics of technology, politics, and society in the years 1940 to 1980. This revised edition contains an additional chapter on Constellations that are still flying today, as well as an additional appendix of the Constellation's operations manual.