Nick A. Komons

Bonfires to Beacons is the first of five books published by the FAA documenting the first fifty years of the U.S. airline industry. It starts in 1926 when the Post Office was flying the mail and the transition to private carriers under control of the Commerce Dept. It follows the development of fledgling airlines into more substantial carriers, and the numerous changes to legislation and regulation that accompanied those changes.

Komons is meticulous in his attention to detail, yet writes in a readable, engaging style. Whereas most aviation histories focus on the flashy planes and colorful pilots, this book examines the infrastructure. The U.S. aviation system would not be as safe as it is without the extensive navigation and communication systems, airport facilities, licensing and certification, and all the other behind-the-scenes activity that keep the planes safely in the air.… (más)