Only six years after man had successfully flown for the first time with controlled, powered flight in 1903, the Royal Navy could already see the potential of taking flying machines to sea. Initially utilised to extend the view from the ships crow's nest, the aircraft at sea would become one of the most influential strides forward in the history of the Royal Navy.This book uses 100 objects and key references that define the Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air Arm, setting them from other flying services. From aircraft and technology to training, language and recreation, the flying branch of the Royal Navy has long had its own specific set of objects, rules and traditions.