The P-51 Mustang: it aided the Allied Forces of World War II and was deemed “the most aerodynamically perfect pursuit plane in existence” by the Truman Senate War Investigating Committee in 1944. It’s a legendary aircraft and an icon of American aviation history. Just ask United Captain Larry Lumpkin, who helps keep this celebrated warbird’s legacy alive, 70 years later, by flying Gunfighter for the Commemorative Air Force (CAF).

Robert A. “Bob” Hoover died Tuesday at the age of 94, a pioneer who paved the way for the future of aviation. Widely regarded as the “pilot’s pilot,” Hoover flew 58 missions during World War II before being shot down and spending 16 months as a prisoner of war. He escaped from the POW camp, stole a German FW-190, and flew back to Allied territory.

After the war, Hoover trained as a test pilot and was backup for Chuck Yeager during the testing of the Bell X-1’s push to break Mach 1. He later became an aerobatic pilot—first flying a P-51 Mustang and later his trademark Shrike Commander—thrilling millions over five decades with his flight maneuvers and “managed energy” routines, including single-engine and engine-out aerobatics. In his memory, ALPA pilots submitted their reflections and personal stories of the late Bob Hoover.

ALPA’s Economic & Financial Analysis Department recently released information detailing the State of the North American Passenger Airline Industry. Read the full report to find out where the industry is now and where it may be headed over the next few years.

Guest Commentary By Capt. Stuart Morrison, ALPA Spirit Master Executive Council Chairman 

This week, airline passengers and cargo shippers at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport saw nearly 100 Spirit Airlines pilots conduct informational picketing in uniform. Joined by pilots from Frontier Airlines, Republic Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, ALPA members who fly for Spirit Airlines stood in unity to express support for our Negotiating Committee members as they bargain a new contract.