The Old Bold Pilot

Book excerpt: Capt. Lumba has been a pilot, union leader and airline executive. He is one of Indian aviation’s legends. His memoir will take you through the by-lanes of Indian Civil Aviation in all its glory. The book explains the Pilot Strike of 1992, the creation and success of Alliance Air (possibly India’s first low-cost carrier), the operational start-up of IndiGo, India’s premier and most successful low-cost carrier. Finally, it covers the safe landing at Laksh Farms, a place termed as a piece of heaven on earth! Readers will find this book more than just a memoir. There are valuable lessons of personal behaviour and integrity that are invaluable to ruminate about. In addition, the historically accurate perspectives of starting and running an airline provide valuable tips for students studying aviation management or even for executives operating in that space today.