The aircraft is only a transport mechanism for the payload, and all design decisions must consider payload fi rst. Simply stated, the aircraft is a dust cover. Fundamentals of Aircraft and Airship Design, Volume 1: Aircraft Design emphasizes that the science and art of the aircraft design process is a compromise and that there is no right answer; however, there is always a best answer based on existing requirements and available technologies.Concepts DiscussedThe authors address the conceptual design phase comprehensively, for both civil and military aircraft, from initial consideration of user needs, material selection, and structural arrangement to the decision to iterate the design one more time. The book includes designing for:Survivability (stealth)Solar and human power aircraft systemsVery high altitude operation with air breathing propulsionThis book is revision and expansion of the 1975 classic aircraft design textbook that has been used worldwide for more than 30 years.Completely updated with the latest industry processes and techniques, it will benefi t graduate and upper-level undergraduate students as well as practicing engineers.