The World Record Paper Airplane Book

Synopsis

It's the classic, world's bestselling paper airplane book, grounded in the aerodynamics of paper and abounding with fun. The World Record Paper Airplane Book raises paper airplane making to a unique, unexpected art. This new edition boasts four brand-new models: Stiletto, Spitfire, Galactica, and Sting Ray. Added to its hangar of proven fliers-including Valkyrie, Hammerhead, Vortex, Condor, Pterodactyl, and, of course, the famous World Record Paper Airplane-that makes twenty airworthy designs. Each is swathed in all-new, attention-grabbing graphics and is ready to tear out, fold, and fly. There are at least five models for each design and all-important instructions for how to adjust and throw each plane for best flight. But the planes are just the beginning. The book features tons of cool information on aerodynamics, competitions, and designing your own high-performing models. Readers will learn why paper airplanes fly (and why they crash), the history of Ken Blackburn's world record, and how to organize and win contests. Also included is a flight log and pull-out runway for practicing accuracy.

Summary

Chapter 1: The History of Paper Airplanes

* Traces the origins of paper airplanes to ancient China and Japan.
* Mentions notable inventors and competitions that shaped paper airplane design.
* Real Example: Kitty Hawk flyer by John Montgomery (1883)

Chapter 2: Paper Airplane Basics

* Explains the five basic parts of a paper airplane: fuselage, wings, tail, rudder, and fins.
* Provides instructions on how to make simple airplanes like the dart and glider.
* Real Example: Paper dart made from notebook paper

Chapter 3: Wings and Aerodynamics

* Discusses the principles of aerodynamics and how they apply to paper airplanes.
* Introduces wing shape, angle of attack, and lift.
* Real Example: Eagle glider with tapered wings and a low angle of attack

Chapter 4: Folds and Modifications

* Teaches techniques to fold and modify paper airplanes to improve their performance.
* Includes instructions on flaps, spoilers, and dihedral.
* Real Example: Modified Ace airplane with wing flaps for increased lift

Chapter 5: Advanced Paper Airplanes

* Introduces advanced airplanes that require more complex folding and design.
* Covers designs like the Ninja Star, Bat Wing, and Swift.
* Real Example: Typhoon fighter jet with intricate wing folding and air brakes

Chapter 6: Indoor Paper Airplanes

* Focuses on airplanes designed for indoor flight, which requires precise handling and stability.
* Details the characteristics of indoor airplanes, such as long wings and a tight turning radius.
* Real Example: Windmill indoor airplane with a large wingspan and minimal drag

Chapter 7: Outdoor Paper Airplanes

* Explores airplanes designed for outdoor flight, which emphasizes distance and altitude.
* Introduces factors like wind conditions and airfoil design.
* Real Example: Apollo rocket airplane with a long, streamlined fuselage and feathered tailfins

Chapter 8: World Record Paper Airplanes

* Presents the official world records for paper airplane distance, duration, and altitude.
* Details the innovative designs and techniques used by world record holders.
* Real Example: The Paper Airplane for the Ages by John Collins (2012), which set the record for longest distance flown at 253.6 feet

Chapter 9: Paper Airplane Competitions

* Discusses paper airplane competitions and provides tips for preparing.
* Describes different categories and judging criteria.
* Real Example: Participation in the annual International Paper Airplane Competition