From a biplane trainer during the First World War to the 747 'Jumbo' and inv olvement in the Space Shuttle programme, the history of Boeing is one of constant development and innovation. Founded by William E. Boeing in 1916, the company's name has always been linked with three classes of aircraft: trainers, bombers and airliners. It was also responsible for pioneering many airmail routes; for the famous B-17 Flying Fortress and its successors, the B-29, B-47 and B-52; for some of the most successful airliners of al.l time, from the Model247 through the 707 to the 747; for helicopters, through its Vertol subsidiary; and for much more. M. J. Hardy's fascinating account will thus appeal to all interested in the history of flight.