This book is subtitled 'The world's most successful light aeroplane'. Now while I'm sure there are those would would point to the Piper/Taylorcraft line of Cubs as fulfilling that that appellation, there is little doubt that it was the Moth that made aeroplane ownership a reality for many in Europe and throughout the world.

The aircraft came about through the Air Ministry's desire to have as many qualified pilots as possible if it ever came to a war situation. Thus the Ministry sponsored events to encourage the design of light aircraft. Unfortunately, these events had requirements that were not only difficult to meet, but resulted in woefully underpowered and sometimes dangerous designs.

Not being willing to participate, DeHavilland developed an aircraft that was basic, but of sufficient power to provide an enjoyable and sturdy aircraft. One of the most interesting parts of the design was that it had folding wings so the owner could, if wished, tow it behind an automobile and fit it into a garage. The aircraft could be made ready for flight in just a few minutes once out of the shed and onto the airfield.

The aircraft proved to be extremely popular in the late 1920s and early 1930s with aircraft built not only for the British market, but also with several factories being build in Australia, Canada and a number of other countries. They were also license built in France, Sweden, Finland and the US.

The author, Stuart McKay, goes into great detail on the development and the history of the DH.60 Moth, concentrating on its early days. The book is divided into sections that cover specific dates. Initially these chapters are in months, but then go into years from around 1925 until the end of 1932.

I found the book to be quite interesting, but I must say that the level of detail is such that some may find it a bit of a difficult read. It is a book that is best read in bits and pieces, allowing the reader to get the full impact of previous sections before continuing on. It is full of wonderful stories of early aviation around the world and some of the odd things that can and do happen.

There are superb period photographs of not on the personalities involved, but of the aircraft themselves. This is further enhanced by a wonderful color section of surviving Moth aircraft. Though many met their fate as impressed training aircraft during WWII, there does seem to be quite a number of them still on the register, and those are listed in the back of the book.

Overall, I found this to be yet another fascinating look at an aircraft that few would readily think about. Those with a fascination regarding light aircraft and general aviation will find it to be of particular interest.

July 2006

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