SR-71: INSIDE LOCKHEED'S BLACKBIRD. by O'Leary, Michael. Photography by Eric Schulzinger and Michael O'Leary - 1991

Osceola, WI: Motorbooks, 1991. 128 pp, 10 7/16" H. Profusely illustrated with color photographs. "The SR-71 Blackbirds was retired on January 26, 1990, as the world's fastest, highest flying aircraft and then came out of retirement on March 6, 1990, to break its own records, flying the 2,404.5 miles from Los Angeles to Washington DC in 68 minutes and 17 seconds - an average of 2112.52 mph! Now, all that remains of the once proud Blackbird fleet are static displays at museums and the three SR-71s now operated by NASA. (This book presents) a unique, last-ever look at the incomparable Blackbird and its last days with the USAF that makes all other SR-71 books forever out of date. (It) is packed with more than 100 color photos, including the first published photos of all eleven Blackbirds together, the SR-71's cockpits and simulators, the final flights, the record speed run, the NASA Birds and much more. Its lively text traces the history of the Blackbird through interviews with pilots, RSOs, ground crews and designers, and includes the first published SR-71 pilot's report, by former SR-71 pilot Terry Pappas." Interior - clean and tight with no previous ownership marks. Exterior - minor rubbing.. First Edition. Soft Cover. Near Fine. Illus. by Eric Schulzinger and Michael O'Leary, photographs..