HIS MAJESTY'S AIRSHIP The Life and Tragic Death of the World's Largest Flying Machine

Nicholas Boulton's smooth narration is perfect for this well-researched historical account of the ill-fated experimental British rigid airship, the R101, and the era of lighter-than-air hydrogen-powered airships. From their origins in Germany to their peak years between WWI and II, these vessels remained in production despite known fatal limitations. With unhurried pacing and light characterizations, Boulton introduces listeners to key R101 figures, including Secretary of State for Air Lord Christopher Thomson and veteran airship aviator George Herbert Scott. Boulton's keen sense for wry humor, especially apparent when relaying footnotes, underscores the absurdity of the political and military imperatives that hastened the R101's flight to India in October 1930 without rigorous testing and adjustments. Aviation history buffs will find this a compelling production. J.R.T. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2023]