The Flying Carpet

The Flying Carpet is a captivating travelogue authored by Richard Halliburton, chronicling his ambitious global journey in an open-cockpit biplane during the early 1930s. Teaming up with pilot Moye Stephens, Halliburton embarked on this daring expedition to explore remote and exotic locales from an aerial perspective. Their journey took them across 34 countries and covered approximately 33,660 miles, making it one of the most thrilling aviation adventures of its time. The narrative unfolds with their departure from Los Angeles, setting the stage for a series of breathtaking encounters and near-impossible feats. They landed in the fabled city of Timbuktu, immersing themselves in its rich history and culture, an experience few Western travelers had at the time. In Nepal, they achieved the remarkable feat of flying over Mount Everest, capturing one of the earliest aerial photographs of the world's highest peak. Their journey continued to India, where they daringly flew upside down over the Taj Mahal, blending adventure with cultural appreciation. In Borneo, they explored dense jungles and engaged with indigenous communities, even encountering native headhunters, adding to the book’s sense of danger and excitement. Throughout their voyage, Halliburton and Stephens faced numerous challenges, from navigating uncharted territories to enduring the perils of early aviation. They contended with unpredictable weather, mechanical failures, and bureaucratic obstacles that threatened to derail their adventure. Despite these hardships, their journey remained a testament to the spirit of exploration and the boundless possibilities of human ingenuity. The Flying Carpet is more than just an account of a thrilling aviation journey; it is a vivid portrait of the world in the early 20th century, painted with Halliburton's signature wit and enthusiasm. His storytelling transports readers to far-flung corners of the globe, offering a unique glimpse into different cultures, landscapes, and historical moments. The book stands as a celebration of adventure, curiosity, and the relentless pursuit of the unknown. The given book is copyright free and can be downloaded without bearing any cost.