Updated 20 Apr 2024
The story of the iconic winner of the greatest air race ever at a pivotal moment in aviation history has never been fully told, those of its stablemates even less so. Only five de Havilland DH 88 Comets were ever built. With one restored to flying condition and another on the way, an ever-growing community of enthusiasts have, bit by bit, been rooting through their past and unearthing their entrancing story. This 48-page book is the result of painstaking research over several years collating, expanding and analysing that body of knowledge. It focuses on the new, the arcane, and the cultural heritage of perhaps the most beautiful aeroplanes ever made. It is packed with facts and profusely illustrated with rare and informative photographs. Large format, 48 pages. Monochrome interior, colour illustrations on back cover. ISBN 9-781716-095429.
"Like the Comet, this is a class act" — Aeroplane "...this beautiful art deco masterpiece" — Nick Stroud, Editor, The Aviation Historian "This is a book written by an acknowledged authority on this subject which includes the great Mildenhall - Melbourne Air Race of 1934. Although only five original machines were built by de Havilland, specifically for the Great Air Race, the Comet Racers have achieved nothing short of cult status. With only one surviving flying example, the race winner 'Grosvenor House', there are replicas and re-builds to be found. Inextricably involved in the Comet story is the great British pioneer aviatrix Amy Johnson, and her husband Jim Mollison. Through painstaking research and careful study, Inchbald has brought the DH.88 Comet story bang up to date. No-one with an interest in the subject should be without this essential book." — Stuart P Evans Contents
CorrectionsThese are errors and small omissions, ranging from minor typos to embarrassing howlers, which have come to my attention.
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For more facts and photos which have emerged since I wrote this book, see More About the Comets.
See also ny take on The de Havilland Comet Racers for the Art Deco Society.