The British Airman of the First World War

Among the many firsts of World War I, the widespread use of aeroplanes was a momentous tactical turning point and it was that heroic generation of airmen who charted an entirely experimental course on how to use aircraft in warfare. First used for reconnaissance, the role of aircraft changed as pilots became more experienced in handling their aeroplanes and ventured out onto new missions to coordinate and support ground forces and eventually planes went on the offense as bombers or fighters with legendary epic air-to-air combat engagements. This is the story of the airmen, how they were officially trained and how they learned from real world experience and how their courage and daring in rudimentary aircraft, often unreliable and made of wood and canvas, ushered in a new era in strategic warfare.

David Hadaway is an aviation enthusiast whose father fought in the Royal Flying Corps and has had several related articles published.