Rolling Airports explores the history and potential of rapidly deployable runways, a critical technology for emergency aircraft operations and tactical deployments. These mobile runways address a significant gap in aviation safety, offering a flexible alternative to fixed airports, especially in disaster relief scenarios. The book reveals how the concept originated during World War II, with early versions using materials like prefabricated steel mats.

The book examines the engineering principles involved in creating stable mobile runways, considering materials science and structural engineering. It presents case studies of successful deployments in military operations and remote civilian applications.

By using primary sources like military manuals and engineering reports, Rolling Airports offers a unique perspective, blending historical analysis with a forward-looking assessment of this underutilized technology. The book progresses from the fundamental engineering challenges to the historical evolution of runway systems and their modern applications. It connects to fields like civil engineering, logistics, and disaster management to underscore the multifaceted nature of mobile runways.

Ultimately, it argues for their strategic value in specific contexts, highlighting their potential to revolutionize aviation safety and military capabilities.

Gideon Blackwood

Books