Aerofax continues with more excellent books on interesting subjects and this one is an edition that I think many of you will enjoy. It covers what I think is one of the neatest Soviet/Russian airliners to have ever been produced, the Tu-134. Though it is now in the twilight of its operational use, thanks to more stringent noise and equipment requirements in Europe, it should soldier on for a number of years in Russia itself and many of the ex-Russian republics.

Designed in the late 1950 and entering service with Aeroflot in the early 1960s, the Tu-134 has provided excellent service. It was the first jet aircraft operated by many of the nations allied with the Soviet Union and replaced the Tu-104/124 in Aeroflot service. With engines in the rear as with the Caravelle, BAC 1-11 and DC-9, it provided a new level of comfort in the Soviet skies.

Since its introduction, the Tu-134 has seen service in 42 different countries as well as with the military of a few of them. Like most large Russian aircraft, the 134 has been used as a test bed for a number of military and civilian projects.

In addition to the usual historical background, development history and sub-type comparisons, the book has a full production listing of all the 800 built as well as details on all the Tu-134 accidents. The part that I really enjoyed were all the photographs (most in color) of the various operators of the 134. Airliner enthusiasts really like looking at photos of the planes in their various liveries and for that this book is just what is wanted. Within its 176 pages are over 260 black and white and color photographs, making this one a real treat.

If you've liked previous Aerofax books, or are a real fan of airliners then this is a book that you just have to own. Highly recommended.

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