A backstage look into one of the most controversial and talked-about realms of our time, Cockpit Confidential will be the definitive resource guide for the millions of people who travel by air each day around the globe -- an entertaining, accessible read based on the decade-long Salon.com columns by popular pilot Patrick Smith. The world of air travel, which seems to be in the news in some fashion nearly every day, is fascinating but undeniably a little wacky. Patrick Smith has a particular talent for underscoring these features with irresistible wit and wisdom. In addition to his knowledge of all things aviation-related, Patrick shares his personal and sometimes surprising insights into geography and culture from his travels to over 70 countries.