In the high-stakes world of aviation, the battle for the sky is not just about airplanes but the ambitious men who dream of ruling them. "Hard Landing" delves deep into the turbulent ascent of the airline industry, guided by the hands of a few daring visionaries. Thomas Petzinger Jr. weaves an intricate narrative, showcasing how icons like Robert Crandall of American Airlines, Frank Borman of Eastern, and Richard Ferris of United, among others, navigated through the complexities of deregulation, labor disputes, and fierce competition to redefine the boundaries of commercial flight. This gripping tale, enriched by Petzinger's exhaustive research, illuminates the personal struggles, corporate battles, and the relentless pursuit of dominance in the sky. Crafted with the precision of a seasoned journalist and the flair of a natural storyteller, Petzinger's "Hard Landing" is more than a chronicle of the airline industry's evolution; it's a front-row seat to the dreams and dramas of the men who sought to capture the hearts of the flying public. Through vivid detail and compelling narrative, the book captures a pivotal era where the industry underwent a dramatic transformation, shaping the future of air travel. As these titans clash in their quest for control, "Hard Landing" offers readers a riveting look at the power struggles that lifted the airline industry to new heights, forever changing the way we see the world.