This book gives a brief but concise narrative on the evolution of the airline industry from its beginnings to the present day. The focus is on regulations, historic events and influencing factors that shaped the industry. Starting with the Wright Flyer, the book details the early conventions and regulatory framework, the development of the commercial airline industry through the 1930s, World War II and the Chicago Convention, that created the current regulatory framework of the industry. The book then goes into the regulated and protectionist era and developments that eventually led to the deregulation and liberalization of the industry. At this point, the industry transcended from heavy government involvement to an industry driven by economic factors. Following this change, the industry experienced unprecedented growth leading to the formation of the so-called Sixth Freedom airlines, the airline alliances and the low-cost and ultra-low-cost carriers. This book is an excellent guide to how the airline industry evolved into what it is today. Comments: "A highly readable - yet thorough - narrative on the evolution of the global aviation industry, greatly enhanced by an amazing array of photos, charts and memorabilia." Paul Behnke, former Foreign Service Officer and Senior Associate-Aviation Strategies International "A comprehensive and informative narrative about the evolution of the airline industry over the past century. What is notable was the significant role of Pan American during the early years and the fact that its influence continues to this day." Jeff Kriendler, formerly Vice President, Corporate Communications, Pan American World Airways "An excellent review of airline regulation, much of it during turbulent times in the industry's history." Jon Proctor (1942-2020), 27-year TWA veteran, author and aviation historian "A succinct guide to one hundred years of air transport development and regulation, covering all the principal events and landmarks. The extensive use of contemporary photographs illustrating the events bring life to a story that has truly transformed our lives." Barry Humphreys CBE, aviation consultant formerly Head of Air Services Policy at the UK CAA and Director of External Affairs and Route Development at Virgin Atlantic Airways James Patrick Baldwin is a university lecturer, author and consultant in the airline industry. A retired Commander in the US Naval Reserve, he was educated at the University of Southern California and the American University Washington College of Law. He currently is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland Global Campus and is a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Westminster (London) and Emirates Aviation University.