The 24 best about airline industry books

Have you ever wondered what happens when we put our faith in the seemingly impossible? Hard Landing: The Epic Contest for Power and Profits That Plunged the Airlines into Chaos by Thomas Petzinger Jr. takes you on a journey to discover the magic of belief. This book tells the dramatic story of how a dozen men, including Robert Crandall of American Airlines, Frank Borman of Eastern, and Richard Ferris of United, battled for control of the world's airlines. It's a story of ambition, greed, and power, but it's also a story of innovation and resilience. As Petzinger writes, "The airline industry is a microcosm of the American economy. It's a story of how a few men can change the world." If you're interested in the airline industry, or in business history in general, then you should definitely read this book. It's a fascinating and informative read that will give you a new perspective on the world of aviation.

This book is a journey full of mysteries and surprises, where each page takes you deeper into unexpected twists and turns. SKYGODS: The Fall of Pan Am by Robert Gandt tells the saga of America's most glamorous airline, from its meteoric ascent to its plunge to extinction. Pan Am was a pioneer in the aviation industry, blazing the way across the world's oceans with its magnificent Clipper ships and launching the first international jet service. It was the first to fly the behemoth 747, the lead customer for America's SST and the Concorde, and was even taking reservations for the first commercial flights to the moon. But despite its early success, Pan Am eventually fell from grace, and in 1991, it filed for bankruptcy. Gandt tells the story of Pan Am's rise and fall from multiple viewpoints, including pilots, stewardesses, and management executives. He paints a vivid picture of the airline's glory days, but he also doesn't shy away from the mistakes that led to its downfall. If you're interested in the history of aviation, or in the story of a once-great company that fell from grace, then you should definitely read this book.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to succeed in a cutthroat industry like the airline business? Flying High: How JetBlue Founder and CEO David Neeleman Beats the Competition... Even in the World's Most Turbulent Industry by James Wynbrandt tells the story of one man who has done just that. David Neeleman is the founder and chairman of JetBlue, one of the most successful airlines in the world. In this book, Wynbrandt traces Neeleman's incredible career, from his teenage ventures and beginnings in the travel industry to his short stint at Southwest Airlines and the ultimate launch of JetBlue. Through a series of interviews with Neeleman's friends, associates, and high-ranking officials in both business and aviation, Wynbrandt paints a vivid portrait of a man who is passionate about customer service and innovation. As Neeleman himself says, "The airline business is a tough business. But if you're willing to work hard and never give up, you can succeed." If you're interested in the airline industry, or in the story of a successful entrepreneur, then you should definitely read this book.

Set in the ever-changing world of the airline industry, this book opens up a world of economics and business. The Airline Business by Rigas Doganis gives a detailed analysis of the crucial events and key developments which have impacted, and will continue to impact on the dynamics of the airline industry. Doganis, a leading industry authority, examines the future prospects for the changing airline business and assesses alternative policies which could help the sector adapt to the shifting marketplace. This book is a must-read for students, researchers and professionals in the fields of economics and business, industry and transportation studies. As Doganis says, "The airline industry is a fascinating and complex one, and it is constantly evolving. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the industry, and it is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how it works."

Twenty-five years ago, Herb Kelleher reinvented air travel when he founded Southwest Airlines, a company where the planes are painted like killer whales, a typical company maxim is "Hire people with a sense of humor," and in-flight meals are never served--just sixty million bags of peanuts a year. By sidestepping "reengineering," "total quality management," and other management philosophies and employing its own brand of business success, Kelleher's airline has turned a profit for twenty-four consecutive years and seen its stock soar 300 percent since 1990. Today, Southwest is the safest airline in the world and ranks number one in the industry for service, on-time performance, and lowest employee turnover rate; and Fortune magazine has twice ranked Southwest one of the ten best companies to work for in America. Nuts!: Southwest Airlines' Crazy Recipe for Business and Personal Success by Kevin and Jackie Freiberg shares the secrets behind the greatest success story in commercial aviation. With unlimited access to the people and inside documents of Southwest Airlines, the Freibergs show how to transfer the Southwest inspiration to your own business and personal life. As the authors say, "Southwest Airlines is a living, breathing example of how a company can achieve both financial success and employee satisfaction. Their story is one that every business leader should read."

Airline Operations and Management: A Management Textbook by Gerald N. Cook is a comprehensive overview of the airline industry from a managerial perspective. It integrates and applies the fundamentals of several management disciplines, particularly economics, operations, marketing, and finance, in developing a holistic understanding of the industry. The focus is on tactical, rather than strategic, management that is specialized or unique to the airline industry. This book is an excellent resource for both senior and graduate students of airline management, as well as entry and junior-level airline managers and professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of the industry beyond their functional area. As Cook states in the preface, "The airline industry is a fascinating and complex one, and it is constantly evolving. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the industry, and it is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how it works."

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of the airline industry? Airline Marketing and Management by Stephen Shaw is the leading textbook for students of marketing and its application to today's airline industry, as well as a reference work for those with a professional interest in the area. Carefully revised, the seventh edition of this internationally successful book examines an exceptionally turbulent period for the industry, featuring new material on changes in customer needs, the US/EU 'Open Skies' agreement, the increase in alliance activity, product adjustments, changes in pricing philosophies, airline websites, and the future of airline marketing. A review of the structure of the air transport market and the marketing environment is followed by detailed chapters examining business and marketing strategies, product design and management, pricing and revenue management, current and future distribution channels, and selling, advertising, and promotional policies. Written in a straightforward, easy-to-read style and combining up-to-date and relevant examples drawn from the worldwide aviation industry, this new edition will further enhance the book's reputation for providing the ideal introduction to the subject.

Prepare to be captivated by "The Crash Detectives," a gripping exploration into the world's most perplexing air disasters. Christine Negroni unravels the mysteries surrounding these tragic events, from Amelia Earhart's enigmatic disappearance to the haunting enigma of MH370. Join Negroni as she delves into the intricate web of human error and mechanical failure that has shaped aviation safety. Through captivating case studies, she reveals how disaster investigations have transformed pilot training, airline operations, and airplane design, making the skies safer with each harrowing lesson learned. This book is an essential read for anyone curious about the intricacies of aviation, offering a profound understanding of the human factors and technological advancements that have made air travel the safest mode of transportation today.

As a child, I was captivated by the fairy tales my grandmother told. Reading "The Wright Brothers" by David McCullough brought me back to those dreamy, magical days. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, McCullough recounts the incredible journey of Wilbur and Orville Wright, two unassuming bicycle mechanics who dared to dream of soaring through the skies. From their humble beginnings in Ohio to the history-making flights at Kitty Hawk, McCullough paints a vivid portrait of their unwavering determination and ingenious minds. Through countless experiments and near-disasters, the Wright brothers revolutionized the world of aviation, proving that anything is possible with a combination of vision, persistence, and a belief in the power of human flight. This book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of innovation and a must-read for anyone fascinated by the history of aviation and the pioneers who made it possible.

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2015)
• National Aviation Hall of Fame Combs Gates Award -(2016)

In today's fast-paced world, we often get lost in work and forget the value of family. "Fate Is the Hunter" by Ernest K. Gann is a precious reminder of what truly matters. Through a series of gripping tales from the treacherous early days of commercial aviation, Gann paints a vivid portrait of the unbreakable bond between pilots and their families, who anxiously await their safe return from every daring flight. With his signature blend of technical expertise and lyrical prose, Gann takes us inside the cockpit, where we witness firsthand the heart-stopping moments of triumph and tragedy that define the lives of these courageous aviators. "Fate Is the Hunter" is a timeless classic that celebrates the indomitable spirit of those who dared to conquer the skies, reminding us that even in the face of danger and uncertainty, the love of family provides an unyielding anchor.

This is a book that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime! Mark Vanhoenacker's "Skyfaring" is a poetic and nuanced exploration of the human experience of flight. Through a pilot's eyes, we are invited to reimagine the ordinary act of air travel as a journey filled with wonder and discovery. Vanhoenacker seamlessly weaves together history, geography, meteorology, and personal anecdotes to create a captivating narrative that transcends the mundane. From the thrill of takeoff to the surreal beauty of flying above the clouds, "Skyfaring" captures the exhilaration and awe that make flying such a uniquely human experience. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply curious about the world beyond your window seat, this book will reignite your sense of adventure and remind you of the boundless possibilities that lie within the skies above.

Awards:

• Warwick Prize for Writing(2015)

This book is a journey full of mysteries and surprises, where each page takes you deeper into unexpected twists and turns. "The Flight Attendant" by Chris Bohjalian is a captivating thriller that delves into the dark secrets and dangerous encounters hidden behind the glamorous façade of air travel. Cassandra Bowden, a binge-drinking flight attendant, awakens in a Dubai hotel room with a dead man beside her. As she pieces together the hazy memories of the night before, she realizes that she may have committed the unthinkable. Fear and panic propel Cassie into a web of lies and deception, as she desperately tries to cover up her involvement in the crime. With each passing moment, the stakes rise and the truth becomes more elusive. Bohjalian masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, exploring the complexities of human nature and the dark consequences that can arise from a single night of reckless abandon. "The Flight Attendant" is a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the shocking climax.

Take flight with "The Aviators," Winston Groom's captivating saga that chronicles the extraordinary lives and daring exploits of Eddie Rickenbacker, Jimmy Doolittle, and Charles Lindbergh. These aviation icons, with their "genius, daring, and uncommon courage," redefined heroism during aviation's golden age. From World War I's aerial battles to World War II's epic raids and Pacific survival tales, Groom weaves a tapestry of heart-stopping adventures that will enthrall readers. Each aviator's story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the "greatest generation," as they embraced danger and defied the limits of human endurance. If you're fascinated by aviation history, captivated by tales of courage, or simply seeking inspiration from extraordinary lives, "The Aviators" is a must-read, taking you on a breathtaking journey through the skies with three legends who soared above the clouds and into the annals of history.

Step aboard the supersonic marvel with Christopher Orlebar's "The Concorde Story: Ten Years in Service" This captivating account, penned by a Concorde pilot himself, takes you on an exhilarating journey through the aircraft's remarkable decade in service. From its ambitious conception to its cutting-edge technologies, Orlebar unveils the Concorde's triumphs and challenges, providing a unique insider's perspective on one of aviation's most iconic creations. Immerse yourself in the Concorde's political battles, operational complexities, and the thrill of supersonic flight. Orlebar's passion for this extraordinary aircraft shines through every page, making this book an essential read for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone fascinated by the pursuit of human ingenuity.

"The Mystery of Flight 427: Inside a Crash Investigation" by Bill Adair unveils the intricate world of air disaster investigations through the lens of the tragic crash of USAir Flight 427 in 1994. Adair, granted unprecedented access to the National Transportation Safety Board's five-year inquiry, takes readers on a gripping journey as investigators unravel the truth behind the disaster. This meticulously researched account exposes the complex interplay between politics, engineering, and human error, revealing the often-hidden factors that contribute to авиакатастрофы. Adair's insider perspective sheds light on the rigorous process of determining the causes of crashes and the far-reaching impact their findings have on aviation safety. "The Mystery of Flight 427" is a must-read for anyone fascinated by aviation, safety, or the intricate workings of major investigations.

Take flight with "The Age of Flight: A History of America's Pioneering Airline" by William Garvey, Randy Johnson, and David Fisher. This captivating chronicle unveils the remarkable journey of United Airlines, from its humble beginnings as an airmail carrier in the 1920s to its evolution into one of the world's leading airlines. Through a rich tapestry of archival artwork, advertising, and photographs, the authors trace United's pioneering spirit, technological advancements, and unwavering commitment to innovation. "The Age of Flight" is not just a history of an airline; it is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of aviation. Whether you're a seasoned traveler, an aviation enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the stories that shaped our skies, this book is an unforgettable voyage through the golden age of flight.

Soar through the skies of style and innovation with "Airline: Identity, Design and Culture" by Keith Lovegrove. This captivating book unveils the glamorous and ever-evolving world of airline culture, from the iconic liveries that adorn aircraft to the haute couture and fine dining experiences that await passengers at 30,000 feet. Lovegrove delves into the fascinating interplay of fashion, food, interior design, and brand identity that has shaped the airline industry over the decades. Through a rich collection of archival images and contemporary photographs, "Airline" offers a unique glimpse into the parallel universe that exists high above the clouds. Whether you're a frequent flyer, an aviation enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of style and travel, this book is an unforgettable journey into the glamorous and ever-evolving world of airline culture.

In today's interconnected world, the air transport system serves as the vital circulatory system of global commerce and connectivity. Mike Hirst's "The Air Transport System" provides a comprehensive and authoritative overview of this complex and dynamic industry. Delving into the operational intricacies of route structures, aircraft performance, airline management, airport operations, and airspace utilization, Hirst unveils the intricate interplay of factors that shape the air transport system. This invaluable resource offers a holistic perspective, examining the natural, regulatory, and operational environments that influence the industry. By exploring the challenges and opportunities faced by all stakeholders, "The Air Transport System" empowers readers to develop balanced strategies for navigating the future of this essential sector.

Navigate the complex financial landscape of the airline industry with Peter S Morrell's "Airline Finance" This comprehensive guide, now in its fourth edition, provides a deep dive into the unique financial considerations faced by airlines, from route rights and airport slots to aircraft leasing and frequent flyer programs. Morrell expertly examines the financial trends and prospects for the industry, contrasting developments for different regions and carriers. With practical airline examples and critical discussions of key issues, this book offers invaluable insights into financial analysis techniques tailored specifically to the airline industry. Whether you're a student of airline management, an analyst, an executive, or a professional in the aviation sector, "Airline Finance" is an authoritative guide to the intricate financial workings of this dynamic industry.

As the airline industry soars through the skies, "Airline Network Development in Europe and its Implications for Airport Planning" by Guillaume Burghouwt takes us on a captivating journey through the evolving landscape of air travel. Amidst the deregulation and liberalization that have transformed the aviation world, airport planners face a daunting task: predicting the unpredictable. Burghouwt delves into the dynamic nature of airline route networks, exploring how they impact airport connectivity and planning. The book unravels the complex relationship between airlines and airports, providing invaluable insights for navigating the turbulent skies of air transport. Whether you're an industry expert, a transportation enthusiast, or simply curious about the forces shaping air travel, this book offers a comprehensive analysis and practical guidance for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Prepare for takeoff with "Airline Operations: A Practical Guide" by Peter J. Bruce, Yi Gao, and John M.C. King, an indispensable guide to the complex and fascinating world of airline operations. As the authors aptly state, "The miraculous operation of an airline, day in and day out, performing its services efficiently and safely, is an unparalleled achievement of modern society." This book takes you on a comprehensive journey through the intricate web of planning, scheduling, and execution that keeps the aviation industry soaring. From regulatory frameworks and network planning to the intricacies of daily operations and contingency management, "Airline Operations" offers a wealth of knowledge for industry professionals and aviation enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting to explore the world of air travel, this book provides a thorough understanding of the inner workings of one of the most vital industries of our time.

In the turbulent skies of the 21st century, "Airline Management: Strategies for the 21st Century" by Paul Stephen Dempsey serves as a beacon of guidance for navigating the industry's ever-changing landscape. As Dempsey astutely observes, "The airlines are in a tailspin and struggling to recover from the worst economic crisis in their history." This book delves into the myriad challenges faced by airlines, from deregulation and consumer complaints to safety concerns, constrained airport capacity, and global crises. Through a comprehensive analysis of industry trends and strategies, Dempsey offers a roadmap for airlines to regain profitability, ensure labor stability, and provide reliable air services to consumers. Whether you're an industry professional, a student of aviation management, or simply fascinated by the inner workings of the airline industry, "Airline Management" provides invaluable insights and practical guidance for navigating the complex and ever-evolving world of air travel.

In the fiercely competitive world of aviation, revenue management is the key to unlocking profitability and staying ahead of the curve. "Airline Revenue Management: Current Practices and Future Directions" by Curt Cramer and Andreas Thams is an indispensable guide to the latest strategies and emerging trends in this critical field. The book provides a comprehensive overview of current revenue management approaches, explaining how they will be enhanced by data science and machine learning methods in the future. Through practical examples and applications, readers gain a deep understanding of the relevance of these concepts for airline commercial organizations. Ideal for students and practitioners alike, this textbook is a must-read for anyone seeking to stay at the forefront of revenue management and drive success in the airline industry.

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving airline industry, efficient operations and scheduling are paramount to success. "Airline Operations and Scheduling" by Massoud Bazargan unlocks the intricacies of these critical functions, providing a simplified and practical guide to optimization models used by airlines worldwide. Demystifying complex technicalities, Bazargan presents real-world examples and case studies, making the material accessible and relatable to readers of all backgrounds. Through a comprehensive review of industry practices, this book equips students, practitioners, and aviation professionals with the knowledge and skills to tackle the challenges of airline operations and scheduling effectively. By embracing a solution-oriented approach, Bazargan empowers readers to make informed decisions, streamline processes, and drive success in the competitive airline industry.