Turbulence
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Product Details
Publisher: Malahide Press
Release Date: March 24, 2020
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Ebook
ISBN: HC: 978-1-7334936-2-8; PB: 978-1-7334936-0-4; EB: 978-1-7334936-1-1
Trim: 6 x 9
Page Count: 272
Fifty Years on the Leading Edge of the Airline Industry
David A. Banmiller
A behind-the-scenes view of the commercial airline industry from the “Airline Doctor.”
David A. Banmiller’s career as an executive has put him in the middle of some of the airline industry’s defining moments over the last fifty years, from its 1960s jet-age heyday, to an era of hijackings in the 70s, through the aftermath of the Pan Am Lockerbie disaster in 1988 and the September 11th tragedy.
Are you fascinated with aviation or ever wondered why prices change and legroom is limited? Turbulence is a fascinating journey through the industry—its people, its economics, and the logistics of continually “moving the iron” in times of ongoing upheaval.
Challenging myths that flying is unsafe and expensive, the food is awful, and the personnel grouchy, this unique business memoir delves into the history of air travel, how it evolved into what it is today, and what the future holds.
Infused with wisdom gleaned from hard lessons learned on the front lines, Turbulence isan engrossing peek behind the scenes of a memorable career in a tumultuous—but indestructible—American industry.
About the Author
David A. Banmiller is a veteran airline executive with over fifty years of crisis management experience in the industry. He began his career as a management trainee for TWA, loading cargo and working ticket counters. He rose to senior leadership positions at several airlines including AirCal, American, Pan Am, Sun Country, and Aloha. He and his wife Michelle split their personal time between Ireland, Spain, and California while continuing their passion for traveling the world.
Visit the author’s website at davidbanmiller.com
Reviews
“With his vast and unique experience, David Banmiller takes the reader on a fascinating journey through the airline industry. Cleverly organized in sections focused on the people who make air travel possible, the infrastructure (aircraft and supporting equipment), and the business itself, his book offers a tour de force of commercial aviation. Guaranteed to learn something new, readers are exposed to a wealth of fact and often entertaining revelations about the legendary captains of the industry, feats of accomplishment, and candid insight, as well as recommendations for the future.”
—William J. Fallon, four star admiral, US Navy (retired), former commander, US Pacific Fleet and Central Command
“Dave’s detailed, hands-on industry knowledge comes across with such positive enthusiasm; he tells incredible real-life stories from behind the scenes in a way which captivates the reader. His keen communications skills are evident in this easy-to-read yet informative in-depth analysis of the aviation industry. For those who are fascinated by the dynamics of airline travel and are intrigued by how so many different disciplines come together to make flying what it is today, this is a must read.” —Gordon Bethune, chairman and CEO, Continental Airlines (retired), author of Worst to First
“Turbulence is a wonderful behind-the-scenes look at the evolution, innovation, and resilience of the airline industry over the years. Propelled by his obvious passion and decades of hands-on experience, Dave puts a human touch on the economics of the business while highlighting the colorful personalities that have contributed to the many, many advances in safety, reliability, efficiency, and sustainability. A fun read for anyone interested in the miracle of aviation.” —John Heimlich, vice president and chief economist, Airlines for America
“Dave Banmiller is an extraordinary leader and manager. I have observed Dave in multiple high stress—truly ‘bet the company’—situations. He brought a steady hand to each and every one and demonstrated great sensitivity to the concerns of the teams he was leading. He makes tough decisions and takes accountability, and he does so with unfailing grace. Dave has a lot to teach all leaders and managers. Turbulence is a great read for all leaders and managers.” —Paul Steven Singerman, Berger Singerman LLP
“Few people have seen the inner workings of commercial aviation as Dave Banmiller has over the last half century. Great anecdotes and unique insights make this a very interesting book.” —Frederick W. Smith, chairman, FedEx