The Secret Life of Flying

Book excerpt: How does a plane stay up in the air? Does the Mile-High Club actually exist? When you flush the toilet, where does it all go? Buckle up for some turbulence because nothing flies under the radar for Captain Jeremy Burfoot. With more than 35 years of airline experience, the former Qantas pilot presents an Airbus-load of stories about unruly passengers and cockpit clashes, and expertly navigates the bizarre myths surrounding everyday air travel. He explains important details like why plane wings actually bend, which in-flight surfaces carry the most germs and how to make plane food taste better. Jam-packed with hilarity, horror stories and honest insights, The Secret Life of Flying is part memoir and part guide to the skies - a razor-sharp and First Class read for anyone who has ever wondered who's really flying the plane ... PRAISE FOR THE SECRET LIFE OF FLYING 'A candid and entertaining behind the scenes view of aviation from former Qantas pilot, Captain Jeremy Burfoot.' Dick Smith, entrepreneur, bestselling author and aviator 'There is more to flying around the world than flaps, slats and airports. In this candid and no holds barred account of the intricacies of commercial aviation, Captain Burfoot deep dives into the technicalities and personalities surrounding your A to B flight. You will be chanting the checklists along with your pilots and smiling smugly wondering what colourful discussions are taking place behind the flight deck door. Fasten your seatbelt and prepare for take-off with Captain Burfoot and The Secret Life of Flying.' Captain Kevin Sullivan, former Qantas pilot and author of QF72 'Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or you just like reading success stories, Jeremy's life has been colourful, to say the least. At age 31 a Boeing 747 Captain! Few pilots travel through their career at this pace. The book is a must-read.' Mike Pero, entrepreneur and aviation enthusiast