About Joanna Bailey
Joanna has led Simple Flying from a startup to the world's largest online aviation publication. With a decades-long background in digital publishing and travel, her valuable insight on both the operational side and the aviation industry have beautifully combined to bring the Simple Flying vision to life. Moderator, commentator, analyst and journalist, Joanna has become a prominent personality in modern aviation media.
Why do you love aviation?
Aviation is the string that connects the world. Thanks to aviation, people can discover new places, do business across continents, enjoy produce from all around the world and stay connected to friends and family. Despite understanding the fundamental physics behind getting a plane into the sky, the 'miracle of flight' still awes me on every takeoff, and the logistics behind getting that flight off the ground are fascinating.
What is your industry focus?
I pride myself on keeping up to date with all aspects of the aviation industry. In particular, I love to hear about new innovations in passenger experience, new seats, onboard products and facilities to make travel even better. I particularly enjoy the rise of solutions for passengers with reduced mobility, and the relentless efforts of airlines to shake off the image they have as the poster child of environmental damage. Design and manufacturing are fascinating to me, as are the many exciting (sometimes unfruitful) initiatives surrounding new airline launches and new aircraft types.
What is your favourite aircraft and why?
This is such a hard question to answer, but anyone who listens to the Simple Flying podcast will know I have a soft spot for turboprops (Dash 8 FTW!). In terms of jets, the A350 is an incredible aircraft for so many reasons, as too is the A220 pocket rocket. The 747 played a big part in my early travel years, as I'm sure it did for many, while the 757 remains a very special aircraft that is sadly dwindling in numbers today. Looking back, I wish I'd been around to fly the icons of yesteryear - the Constellation, the DC-3, the Comet... but I'm also excited to see what's next for aviation!
Latest Articles
Bombardier: Downsview Ends But Something Better Begins
Bombardier had operated in Downsview since 1992.
Bombardier Discloses Environmental Impact Of Its Complete Aircraft Portfolio
It will be the first business jet manufacturer in the world to disclose this level of detail for every aircraft in its line-up.
How The Other Half Fly: VistaJet Goes To Enviable Lengths To Make Air Travel Better For Your Body
The private jet charter company wants to take the stress and strain out of traveling by plane.
The Simple Flying Podcast Episode 211: Boeing's Management Shakeup, Ryanair CEO Interviewed, Breeze Loyalty Play
Join the Simple Flying team as we discuss some of the biggest events in aviation this week.
Pilot Insight: How Perfect Airplane Landings Are Done
The approach and landing are among the most critical flight phases.
Did You Know The World's Biggest Plane Set 123 Other Records?
The Antonov An-225 was a world-beater in more ways than just its sheer size.
When Did Each Of London Heathrow Airport's Terminals Open?
The UK's busiest airport used to have five operational terminals.
The Differences Between De Havilland's DHC-6 'Twin Otter' Variants
The original Twin Otter only had three variants, but a fourth was made by another manufacturer.
How Tony Douglas Is Building Riyadh Air To Be A Better Airline
Getting to grips with a brand-new airline is a dream come true for Riyadh Air's CEO.
What Happened To US Cargo Carrier Southern Air?
The carrier flew freight services for itself and for other operators.
What Happened To Indian Carrier Kingfisher Airlines?
How did the carrier go from boasting the second-largest share of the domestic Indian aviation market to bankruptcy in the space of a few years?
Meet The Celera 500L: A Business Aircraft With Exceptional Fuel Efficiency
A futuristic business aircraft design is here.
Closing 'Shadow Factories' Could Be Boeing's Quality Control Solution
CFO Brian West believes repositioning the talent currently reworking planes can help it improve production quality.
The 5 Coolest European Fifth Freedom Flights
There are fewer fifth freedom flights today than there were in the past, but it’s still possible to fly within Europe on some pretty exotic airlines.
Why Did The Cessna 162 Skycatcher Fail?
The two-seat Light Sport Aircraft was canceled with less than 200 units publicly sold.
What Happened To Pan Am's Boeing 747 Aircraft?
While most aircraft have been broken up or scrapped, a handful are preserved.
The Simple Flying Podcast Episode 201: Spirt-JetBlue Merger Blocked, Akasa's Massive 737 MAX Order
Join Jo and Tom for the latest from the world of commercial aviation...