The Secret Life of Flying

Have you ever wondered how a plane defies gravity to soar gracefully through the sky? Or perhaps you've pondered the existence of the fabled Mile-High Club, or what really happens when you flush the toilet at 35,000 feet. Prepare to be enlightened as The Secret Life of Flying by Captain Jeremy Burfoot takes you on a fascinating journey behind the scenes of commercial aviation.

Drawing on more than 35 years of airline experience, this former Qantas pilot offers an insightful, humorous, and candid look at the world of air travel. Captain Burfoot's extensive knowledge and his knack for storytelling come together to form an aviation memoir that is both educational and entertaining. He delves into a vast array of captivating topics, from the physics of flight and the science behind bending plane wings to deep-cleaning methods for in-flight surfaces and tips for making plane food actually taste good.

The narrative is rich with real-life anecdotes, including encounters with unruly passengers, cockpit conflicts, and bizarre in-flight incidents that you would never believe. You’ll learn about the rigorous training pilots undergo, the technical jargon of the cockpit, and the delicate dance of checklists and protocols that keep flights safe and efficient. Captain Burfoot effortlessly dispels common myths about flying, providing a comforting dose of reality for anxious flyers.

The Secret Life of Flying is part memoir, part guide to the skies, and an all-around compelling read. With equal measures of hilarity and horror, this book provides readers with a first-class ticket to the unvarnished truth about air travel. It’s perfect for aviation enthusiasts, frequent flyers, or anyone who has ever glanced out an airplane window and wondered about the complexities of flight.

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