Commercial Aviation 101

Commercial Aviation 101 offers a clear, engaging look at how the airline industry works, from the basics of jet engines and aircraft types to the complexities of security, regulation, revenue management, and passenger experience. Drawing on decades of first-hand expertise in aviation security, Greg Gayden explains industry terminology, codes, and practices in plain language that both newcomers and seasoned travelers can understand.

Covering everything from the history of aviation security to airline deregulation, frequent flyer programs, and aircraft maintenance, this book serves as both a reference guide and an insider's view of modern air travel. Whether you are a student, industry professional, or curious flyer, Commercial Aviation 101 provides a practical foundation for understanding one of the world's most dynamic industries.

About the Author: Greg Gayden is an aviation writer, data analyst, and publisher of the newsletter Flightline. He has spent nearly 25 years with the Transportation Security Administration as a regulatory inspector in the United States and abroad, working from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to TSA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and visiting more than 200 airports across nearly 40 countries. An avid spotter and photographer, he brings real-world experience and clear explanations to make commercial aviation accessible to travelers, students, and enthusiasts.