The cover of the October 2021 issue of FlyPast boasts a stunning image of Lockheed P-38F Lightning ‘Glacier Girl’ taken by legendary aviation photographer Philip Makanna. Famous for evocative and beautifully lit pictures, as well as his long-running series of books and calendars, we include some of the lensman’s best images in our special feature. Continuing the P-38 theme, this issue looks at the use of the distinctive, twin-boomed fighters in World War Two’s Pacific campaign.

FLYPAST CLASSICS – HAWKER HUNTER
Hawker’s seasoned chief designer Sydney Camm tackled the jet age in the same way he approached most tasks. His way was through evolution, perfecting each advance to the next type. The resulting production aircraft became probably the most successful British jet fighter in history. With artwork from Andy Hay and rarely seen images, Bertie Simmonds celebrates the rise of Hawker’s legendary Hunter.

NIGHT WITCHES
An all-female Russian bomber regiment overcame the odds to strike fear into their Nazi prey. Tara Leggett tells their story.

BIGGIN HILL WORKSHOP
The famous airfield’s Heritage Hangar is always bustling with activity. Darren Harbar visited the former Battle of Britain station to report on progress.

AIRCRAFT CARRIERS
Chris Croot continues his delve into aircraft carrier history, covering the period from the Korean War to the Falklands conflict.

LUFTWAFFE ODDITY
Among the more unusual aircraft to emerge from wartime Germany was the asymmetric Blohm und Voss BV 141. Malcolm V Lowe describes its development and fate.