Carrier Pilot

Norman Hanson's memoir recounts his experiences as a Fleet Air Arm pilot during World War II. The book covers his training in Britain and the United States, followed by his combat service flying Corsair fighters from Royal Navy aircraft carriers. Hanson details the technical challenges and dangers of carrier aviation in the 1940s, from the basics of takeoffs and landings to combat operations. His account focuses heavily on the Pacific theater operations against Japanese forces in 1945, including missions over Okinawa and the Japanese mainland. The narrative balances operational details with personal observations about life aboard carriers and relationships between pilots. The text maintains a straightforward, matter-of-fact tone while describing both routine duties and combat encounters. The memoir stands as both a historical record and a testament to the psychological demands placed on young carrier pilots during wartime. Through Hanson's direct writing style, the reader gains insight into how aviators maintained composure while facing extreme pressure and loss.

Readers emphasize the raw, authentic nature of Hanson's first-hand account of fleet air operations in WWII. They note his detailed descriptions of flying Corsairs from carriers and the challenges faced by Royal Navy pilots. Readers appreciated: - Technical accuracy in describing carrier operations - Personal insights into pilot training and combat - Clear explanations of procedures and terminology - Honest portrayal of fear and stress - Balance of action and human elements Common criticisms: - Some military jargon can be hard to follow - A few readers found early training sections too detailed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (89 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.7/5 (173 ratings) Amazon US: 4.6/5 (92 ratings) One reader noted: "Unlike many war memoirs, Hanson captures both the excitement and terror without glorifying combat." Another commented: "His description of first carrier landings puts you right in the cockpit."

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🛩️ Norman Hanson flew Corsair fighters from HMS Illustrious during World War II, making him one of the rare pilots who experienced both the Pacific and European theaters of war. ✈️ The book provides vivid descriptions of the unique challenges of carrier landings, which pilots called "controlled crashes," with only 85 feet of landing space compared to land-based runways. 🏅 Hanson's squadron, 1830 Naval Air Squadron, played a crucial role in Operation Meridian, striking oil refineries in Sumatra that were vital to Japan's war effort. 📖 Originally published in 1979, the book remained relatively obscure until it was rediscovered and republished in 2016, gaining recognition as one of the most authentic accounts of Fleet Air Arm operations. 🚢 HMS Illustrious, Hanson's carrier, was one of the most decorated British aircraft carriers of WWII, surviving multiple kamikaze attacks and earning the nickname "Lusty" from her crew.