Documentary

Reaching for the Skies

Reaching for the Skies was an aviation documentary TV series made by BBC Pebble Mill in association with CBS Fox. The first episode was transmitted in the United Kingdom on 12 September 1988 and in the US in 1989.

Narrated by British actor Anthony Quayle, and by Robert Vaughn for its American and International releases, It was divided into 12 programs. The series producer was Ivan Rendall. Music used was mainly sourced from KPM Musichouse.

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Created By

Status

Ended

Original Name

Reaching for the Skies

First Air Date

September 12, 1988

Last Air Date

November 28, 1988

Seasons

1

Episodes

12

Language

English

Production Companies

Networks

BBC Two

S01E12

Vertical Flight

Examining the history of vertical flight, the program begins with the early helicopters, and then deals the with the pivotal breakthrough of the Cierva Rotor-head, followed by an explanation by the modern master of the Autogyro, Ken Wallis accompanied by the last movement of Bach's 3rd Brandenburg Concerto. Thereafter we move forward to Igor Sikorsky's helicopter, with interview with the great designer at the time of its development. Thereafter the focus moves then to the two great periods of helicopter lifesaving, the Korean War and Vietnam, where the helicopter truly went to war and heroes were made. The calm recollections of several very decorated veterans of the conflict make for compelling viewing, combined with previously unseen film footage of the conflict.

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