Flying the SR-71 Blackbird

In the Cockpit on a Secret Operational Mission

By: Richard H. Graham

Narrated by: Shawn Compton

Length: 9 hrs and 21 mins

Publisher's summary

For anyone who has ever wondered what it's like to fly the SR-71 on a secret Mach 3 reconnaissance mission, this book has the answer. Completely redesigned and updated with photos from author Colonel Richard H. Graham's personal archive, as well as a new introduction, Flying the SR-71 Blackbird details what an SR-71 mission entailed, from planning to donning a pressure suit to returning to base.

The Lockheed SR-71, unofficially known as the Blackbird, was an advanced, long-range, Mach 3 strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed by Lockheed Skunk Works. The aircraft flew so fast and high that not one was ever shot down, even by a missile. SR-71 pilot and instructor Colonel Richard Graham offers a rare cockpit perspective on how regular Air Force pilots and navigators transformed themselves into SR-71 Blackbird crews, turning their unique aviation talents to account in an unprecedented way.

Arguably the world's foremost expert on piloting the Blackbird, Graham takes listeners along on an operational mission that only a few Air Force pilots have ever experienced.

©2008, 2010, 2019 Richard H. Graham (P)2021 Tantor

What an honor

What an honor to have this on audiobook thank you to everybody. A close friend was an F117 crew chief and we have always wanted to read this book and it’s always been out of reach until now. Read this along side of skunk Works documentary.

Blackbird

Great perspective of flying the Blackbird! Thank you for sharing your amazing experiences. I agree it was a mistake to shut down the program.

A one of a kind aircraft that should be flying

The SR-71 was a genius machine. Nothing has ever been designed so perfect for it's mission. Everyone involved with this program is a hero.

History, aircraft, and espionage buffs READ THIS!

this book is hands down incredibly interesting to those that enjoy history, details, espionage, and the SR-71 Blackbird. this book does give an incredibly detailed view from the pilot and Cruz point of view that encompasses much more than just the cockpit. what made this book five stars for me Isn't it could have been an incredibly tedious and monotonous task going through what each gauge lever switch and button does but both the author and the narrator do and wizard job throwing in anecdotes or stories behind many of the switches Etc very interesting

Well written and informative

This is an amazing story of an irreplaceable aircraft. going through the checklists with the writer put the readers mind in the cockpit of the HABU. it is written in such a manner that you feel like you are flying and living the memories.

The SR71 Blackbird - No equal!

The author presents a detailed view of SR71 operations by highly qualified pilots and companion flying officers. The aircraft was designed and fabricated by genius engineers and technicians. Eventually retired under questionable circumstances. No other jet engined aircraft comes close to matching the record setting performance of the blackbird! Records include 85,000 feet altitude operations, 2,100 mph speeds, 64 minutes flying time Los Angeles to Washington DC. Simply amazing!

Absolutely excellent book

Very well written and the narration is top notch. Must read for any aviation enthusiast. If you want detailed information on the blackbird, then this is the book to get.

Very informative

Extremely detailed look at what happens in the SR71 cockpit. Pre-flight checklist, missions, post flight checklist, and life on AFB. If you want the granular details then this book is for you.

Greatest aircraft ever

I was on the team that initiated the KC135 Q refueling operations at RAF
Mildenhall and this was a wonderfully written book about the Blackbird and it’s refueling support. Thank you Richard Graham. I have purchased this book in hardcover and it will have a special place in my personal library along with all the memories you ignited once more!

Great book for all avid SR-71 fans and pilots in general!

It is a detailed and very technical description of the aircraft and its missions, coupled with stories of the writer.