Swinburne aviation experts launch book on airline operations

Everyday airline operations are the subject of a new book edited by Swinburne aviation experts, with contributions from a range of international industry practitioners.

The book - Airline Operations: a practical guide – was launched by aviation industry luminary Sir Rod Eddington, AO at the Hawthorn Arts Centre on 19 February.

“This book provides both a historical context and some very important pointers to the future in the core functions of an airline’s operation,” Sir Rod says.

Published by Routledge, the bookwas edited by Swinburne aviation lecturers Dr Peter Bruce, Dr Yi Gao and Mr John King.

Dr Peter Bruce is an active researcher with considerable first-hand experience in airline operations, having spent almost 17 years as an operations controller. His teaching focus is on aviation business and strategy and airline planning and operations.

Dr Yi Gao is the Aviation Undergraduate Course Director at Swinburne and teaches Aviation Regulation and Operation and oversees the undergraduate capstone research project.

After a 20 year career in the airline industry John King established a consultancy providing government relations services for airlines and tourism industry. He is involved in delivering postgraduate courses at Swinburne.

From left: John King, Dr Peter Bruce, Sir Rod Eddington and Dr Yi Gao.

Airline operations presented in four parts

The first part of the book outlines the importance of the regulatory framework supporting airline operations. It explores how airlines structure themselves in terms of network and business model. It also outlines the infrastructure required at major airports.

The second part looks at the operational environment and explains the air traffic system and processes instigated by operational departments within airlines, including crew, maintenance and resource planning.

The third breaks down the activities that occur on an actual operating day, including baggage and air cargo processes and operational safety. It presents a pilot’s, flight attendant’s and passenger’s perspective of operating a flight.

The final part looks at what can go wrong during a typical day and how airlines try to mitigate these problems. It also provides a glimpse into the future of airline operations.

A new series of specialist Aviation titles, to be published by Routledge, was also announced at the book launch. For further information about this series, please contact Dr Peter Bruce pbruce@swin.edu.au

Airline Operations: A practical guide offers valuable knowledge to industry and academia alike and is available at the Swinburne Bookshop. It retails for $158.00

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