Test Pilot

"Test Pilot" by Jimmy Collins is a memoir written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the life and experiences of Collins as a test pilot, diving into the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of a life dedicated to aviation, particularly focusing on the perils of dive testing aircraft. It illustrates not just the technical challenges associated with flying but also the emotional and psychological aspects of being a pilot, intertwining personal anecdotes with insights into the aviation industry. The opening of "Test Pilot" introduces the character of Jimmy Collins through a foreword by Joseph Medill Patterson, who highlights Collins' remarkable skills and unique personality. It describes his background and journey into aviation, including his relationship with fellow aviators such as Charles Lindbergh. The memoir sets the stage for Collins’ thrilling and risky career, leveraging vivid personal accounts from his flight testing experiences, including the dangers of dive testing, the camaraderie among pilots, and the stark realities of life in the air. This beginning lays a foundation for readers to anticipate thrilling stories filled with technical detail and personal reflection on the risky world of aviation.