This was really well explained.

Here's that article on ITA: http://www.demarcken.org/carl/papers/ITA-software-travel-com...

I bought the book "Hard Landings" after seeing this talk last year. That book well worth the read if you are at all interested in the history of the airline industry.

Link to video in Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/195694156

That's a great introduction to this world. As someone who extensively researches fares, I always find the routing codes and availability a bit overwhelming.

I also agree with his closing arguments - always book directly from the airline.

Any idea how Airport by Arthur Hailey is relevant today?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airport_(novel)

Relevant in what way? It’s a work of fiction.

Just saw on the wiki:

"The book presents an overview of the operations of a major commercial airport, much of which is still applicable over 40 years later. Several major and minor characters appear, illustrating the vast complexity of the airport and its operations, including customs officers, lawyers, airport police, doctors, clerks, snow clearers, et al."

Seems like it's still relevant :)