We’re not really “the sky is falling type,” but…
Congressional investigators reported this today: There is a high risk of a catastrophic runway collision in the United States. While we doubt this comes as a surprise to most, it’s still chilling. And one more reminder–in an endless series of reminders–that commercial flying sucks.While those who fly privately aren’t totally immune to this runway danger, of course, one of the advantages of private flight is making use of the smaller, far less congested airports.
The study from the Government Accountability Office blames the situation on poor leadership from federal agencies, antiquated and unreliable equipment, and air traffic controllers who are pushed too hard, way too hard.
The report says that: “..no single office is taking charge of assessing the causes of runway safety problems and taking the steps needed to address those problems.” Now that’s comforting, isn’t it?
There have been several near misses this year. Two commercial jets came within less than 40 feet of each other at Los Angeles International. In Fort Lauderdale, one jet, already on the runway, had to take off again to avoid hitting another wrongly postioned on the same runway. A Delta Boeing 737 nearly landed on top of a commuter jet at LaGuardia.
All we can say is: Make sure your seatbelt is tight and secure. (And you may want to think about investing in a fractional jet sooner rather than later.)
