The Newfoundland Group LLC (TNG) was primarily an one-man research, analytical and consulting firm from 1997- 2009.  TNG’s primary focused was the US airline industry, but attempted to move outward several times. This website archives some of its’ published work.

Initially, TNG was quite successful and well received.  The Newfoundland Reports written from 1997-2001 were widely read and acclaimed for providing timely industry insights.   From this research experience TNG transitioned to consulting, but the results were spotty. 

TNG also hoped to rid our industry of its governing labor law: The Railway Labor Law (RLA).  This is clearly the most pernicious and mentally-deranged labor law our country has ever created. Sadly, this archaic process ensures aviation employees and managements are perpetual  combatants.  Despite a tireless effort, TNG failed to even raise awareness concerning this bedrock issue.  

Since Brad Bartholomew, the TNG principal, also flies as Southwest Airline Captain, he tried to openly share his aviation research with his fellow aviators and employees.  Again, initially these efforts were quite successful and well received.  But now that relationship - at least with the pilot union (SWAPA) - has become estranged.

All TNG efforts were supported by the timeless, insights gained from our mentor, Herb Kelleher.  Strongly influenced by the #1 bossman, we diagramed our core set of beliefs in our Business Reliability Model (BRM).  Some of Herb’s wisdom, stories and antics are also highlighted on our Past Efforts page.

I will always cherish meeting so many wonderful hard-working, intelligent, caring employees, managers, investors, analysts and media folks that make our aviation industry fly safely everyday.  You have all enrich my life.

Brad Bartholomew

September 13, 2009