airline safety

Many factors can be blamed for a plane crash; pilot fatigue, mechanical failure or poor equipment. But just one accident shows how vulenarable the system can be in a weak economy.  read more »

Today’s consumers are frustrated with the airline industry for their extra fees and declining service. But what about the problems that could cost you more than your paycheck?

According to CBS Travel Editor Peter Greenberg over twenty six thousand flights take off and land every day without incident. Statistically that means the U.S. is seeing its safest era in aviation history. But Greenberg says we are flying towards a perfect storm of disaster and airlines aren’t scoring higher than an “f” when it comes to aviation safety.

“Think about this, an aging aircraft fleet, poor pilot training, understaffing air traffic control towers, equipment that they’re using that’s 20 years to old, outsourcing of maintenance without proper oversight. Need I say more?”  read more »

The airline industry is flying to places no one wants to go. Places like extra fees and hidden charges, places that your wallet isn’t ready for.

Earlier this week American airlines announced that it will start charging passengers fifty dollars to fly coach on stand-by. The airlines says they are trying to ease the congestion caused by stand-by passengers during boarding but do admit there is some revenue involved. And it’s just the latest in the long list of additional charges for bags, blankets, headsets and special meals. CBS Travel Editor Peter Greenberg says in these low travel times these fees are keeping planes in the sky.  read more »