Autogiro Pioneer: The Life of Jack Richardson

'Autogiro Pioneer' is a vivid account of the varied life and adventures of Jack Richardson (1899-1987). The book is based on his memoirs, which have been edited by his son. In the 1930s he worked for Juan de la Cierva, the inventor of the Autogiro (the forerunner of the helicopter), and was the first person to obtain a commercial pilot's licence as an Autogiro pilot. This work involved (among other activities) several hazardous flights across Europe in all kinds of weather. In 1944 he  became the first fully-trained helicopter pilot in the British Army. In his later career with the Army and with Westland Aircraft he helped to develop the military and commercial uses of the helicopter, played a major role in the construction of the Heliport at Battersea, and was Chairman of The Helicopter Association.

The 208 page book is illustrated with 100 pictures in black and white and in colour.

Author Nicholas Richardson