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Preparing for Take Off

Three-part series charting the development of Britain's airports and how they have transformed the country, in the process creating both freedom and fear. This part takes us from the heady, imperial glamour of Britain's first airport terminal at Croydon to the internationally-agreed hieroglyphics on today's taxiways and runways. Using rare archive and access to airports' hidden corners, it reveals the intense local rivalry, skulduggery and sheer passion for flight behind our airports. Contributors include architect Lord Foster, philosopher and author Alain de Botton, veterans of Britain's interwar airports and a 'wildlife control co-ordinator', talking about how, in 100 years, the muddy airfield became the 24-hour airport.

English
  • Originally Aired June 15, 2009
  • Runtime 60 minutes
  • Content Rating United States of America TV-PG
  • Network BBC Four
  • Created July 31, 2009 by
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  • Modified July 31, 2009 by
    Administrator admin