How to Land a Plane

Take a seat—the captain’s seat, that is—and relax. You’re about to land a Boeing 747.

The mystery of flight is magical; the reality, still more so—from the physics that keeps a 450-ton vehicle aloft, to the symphony of technology and teamwork that safely sets it down again. Take it from Mark Vanhoenacker—British Airways pilot, internationally bestselling author, and your new flight instructor. This is How to Land a Plane.

Vanhoenacker covers every step—from approach to touchdown— with precision, wit, and infectious enthusiasm. Aided by dozens of illustrations, you’ll learn all the tools and rules of his craft: altimeters, glidepaths, alignment, and more. Before you know it, you’ll be on the ground, exiting the aircraft with a whole new appreciation for the art and science of flying.