Flying the Line

Flying the Line chronicles the formation and early history of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) from 1931 through the 1960s. This historical account follows the union's development from its inception during the challenging years of commercial aviation's infancy. The book examines key figures in ALPA's establishment, particularly its founder Dave Behncke, and documents the major labor conflicts that shaped commercial aviation. Through interviews and archival research, Hopkins reconstructs the pilots' struggle for safety regulations, fair wages, and better working conditions during the industry's rapid expansion. The narrative tracks parallel developments in aviation technology, airline business practices, and federal regulation of air travel. Hopkins presents multiple perspectives on these pivotal events by incorporating viewpoints from pilots, airline management, and government officials. At its core, Flying the Line is a study of how one profession organized itself during a period of unprecedented technological and social change. The book reveals the complex relationship between labor rights, public safety, and commercial interests in American aviation.

Airline pilots and aviation historians value this book as a detailed account of ALPA's (Air Line Pilots Association) early history and labor relations in commercial aviation. Readers appreciate: - First-hand accounts from pilots involved in early union organizing - Technical accuracy regarding airline operations of the era - Documentation of working conditions and safety issues from the 1930s-1960s - Clear explanation of complex labor negotiations and regulations Common criticisms: - Dense writing style with excessive detail in some sections - Limited focus on modern airline operations post-1970s - Minimal coverage of airlines outside the United States Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (17 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (12 ratings) Several pilots on aviation forums specifically note the book's value for understanding the profession's history. One reviewer on Airliners.net stated it "fills an important gap in airline labor history that few other books address." Multiple readers mention consulting it as a reference work rather than reading it cover-to-cover.

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🔹 Author George Hopkins was a professor of history at Western Illinois University and spent years interviewing hundreds of airline pilots to capture the authentic voice of early commercial aviation. ✈️ The book covers the formation of ALPA (Air Line Pilots Association) in 1931, which became one of the most influential labor unions in American history and was founded by Dave Behncke. 🔹 During the period covered by the book (1920s-1930s), airline pilots had a life expectancy of only about seven years after beginning their careers due to dangerous flying conditions. ✈️ The title "Flying the Line" refers to scheduled air service routes, distinguishing professional airline pilots from barnstormers and other early aviation pioneers who flew without regular routes. 🔹 The book details how early airline pilots often had to navigate using visual landmarks like railroad tracks and rivers, as modern navigation systems didn't exist, leading to the phrase "flying by the seat of your pants."