Bush Pilots Do It in Fours

by Roy Watson

Bush Pilots Do it in Fours follows Roy Watson's flying career and his fascination with all things airborne, from the very first steps through the restoration of a Tiger Moth, Aeronca and Zlin and some exposure to aerobatics in these 'older' flying machines. Thereafter, it moves towards larger aircraft, with his experiences maintaining Hawker Siddley 748's. Roy was heavily involved in establishing an airline, specifically aimed at supplying food, to impoverished Africa and a close involvement with Russian Aircraft and Douglas DC4's. What follows is his first taste of true 'bush flying', which evoked a distinct passion and love for the DC-4 (which inspired the title of the novel itself). The novel finally ends up with the challenging repair and subsequent conversion onto the Boeing 707. The flying exploits vary from humorous undertakings and happenings with his elderly light aircraft up to major expeditions in commercial airliners stretching from the Antarctic as far as the Northernmost Parts of Africa. Roy describes many incidents in the air, on the ground, and with the local population in a light-hearted and entertaining light that is sure to evoke a smile or two.

292 pages, Paperback

First published March 13, 2006

Reviews

[Grant Wareham · Rating 4 out of 5]

This read a bit more like a diary than a book, but the stories were fascinating nonetheless. The knowledge Roy had after all these years is staggering

[Elan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one for any flying enthusiast. A great story that spans many adventures in Southern Africa's air space.