McDonnell Douglas A-4 Skyhawk

Flight Journal, Oct 2004

McDonnell Douglas A-4 Skyhawk by Brad Elward; The Crowood Press Ltd., Ranesbury, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 2HR England; 192 pages; illustrated; $52.95.

Known throughout the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps as "The Scooter," "Tinker Toy" and the ever popular "Heinemann's Hot Rod," the A-4 Skyhawk remains one of the best jet aircraft ever designed. It had the unenviable job of helping to replace another Douglas product, the legendary A-1 Skyraider. The Skyhawk's diminutive size and great agility, however, quickly endeared it to its pilots. Its reputation with the Blue Angels certainly didn't hurt either.

It was the creation of Douglas's legendary chief design engineer, Ed Heinemann. The maiden flight was piloted by another legend, Bob Rahn. All carrier wings eventually had two Skyhawk squadrons, and the A-4 did the vast majority of low-level work over the steaming jungles of Vietnam, and, in doing so, became a legend itself.

With all that has been written about this rugged little fighter, one might conclude that the subject has been quite effectively covered. Author Brad Elward, however, has discovered enough new material and images to create what may be the most comprehensive book on the Skyhawk to date.

This large-format book contains a history of the type and includes information on each variant as well as a great selection of photos-some never before published. And best of all, there are stories by the pilots themselves; that alone makes this one worth the price of admission. Though the price is a little steep for some, it will be required reading for those with an unshakable interest in the magnificent A-4.