Long Distance Flyer, G-EBFO By Kenneth T. Ward Celebrates Looming Centenary Of Inaugural Long Distance Flight

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Long Distance Flyer, G-EBFO by Kenneth T. Ward recounts the extraordinary 1926 flight of Alan Cobham and his team, who successfully navigated a small seaplane on a 26,000-mile journey from England to Melbourne and back, paving the way for Imperial Airways and British Airways.

 

Long Distance Flyer, G-EBFO

Kenneth T. Ward’s Long Distance Flyer offers a captivating account of the groundbreaking 1926 flight that paved the way for modern commercial aviation. With his uncle, RAF Flight Sergeant Arthur Ward, serving as an unexpected hero, the author immerses readers in a thrilling tale of adventure, engineering expertise, and human resilience.

The book chronicles Alan Cobham’s ambitious journey to Australia and back, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by the pioneering crew. From navigating treacherous landing strips to overcoming engine failures and encountering unexpected obstacles, the narrative offers a glimpse into the early days of aviation.

Ward’s accessible writing style makes the story accessible to both aviation enthusiasts and general readers. The book provides fascinating insights into the technical aspects of flying a seaplane across vast distances, as well as the hospitality and camaraderie experienced along the way. By remembering these fearless pioneers, Long Distance Flyer serves as a reminder of the incredible progress made in aviation over the past century.

Kenneth T. Ward

On June 30th, 2026, it will be 100 years since the very first long distance flight, to the other side of the world and return to England and this established the route for flying to Melbourne, Australia and what to expect for weather conditions versus commercial aircraft. The twenty-six thousand miles flight was used for expanding the British company Imperial Airways, which eventually became British Airways, for intercontinental flights and was encouraged by the British Government for bringing the dominion’s closer in time.

Familiar as the pilot, Alan Cobham, was with long distance flights, the idea of flying from England to Melbourne and back in a small Seaplane, because landing fields were not available from Rangoon to Darwin, offered a new and dangerous adventure for Cobham and his engineer. He also wanted to experience flying in the monsoon period, so testing the worst of weather.

Getting lost, murder and engine problems included, the story is based upon a true event when international flights hardly existed and recreates the outstanding bravery the airmen showed. Over one million spectators, it is estimated, witnessed their return when landing on the River Thames, after a three month journey, with the same aeroplane and engine.

My involvement with the Royal Airforce where my Uncle Arthur Ward, Cobham’s engineer, was a Squadron Leader included doing my National Service and being trained in aircraft systems related to automatic pilot and submarine detection equipment on Shackleton search and rescue aircraft, at 120 Squadron Aldergrove, Northern Ireland.

After leaving the Airforce I went on to build my own business manufacturing and marketing bathroom equipment which is exported to many countries.  Now retired, I am married to Anne, and we have four children and ten grandchildren.

-Kenneth T. Ward

Find more from Kenneth T. Ward now:

Kindle: https://amzn.to/3ztepje

Paperback: https://amzn.to/4eMfOA6

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