Everyone complains constantly about flying today so I think a bit of defense of our air travel industry may be in order.
First of all, I had no problem with both of my flights over the past week. American Airlines was great. Left on time, arrived on time or early. What more could one want? They were full, but isn’t that how airlines stay in business?
I know that our air transportation system is overburdened. Most delays are caused by weather, and an air traffic control system that can’t cope with the traffic. The equipment is out dated, the controllers overworked, and safety, thank God, is their first priority. There is a solution. Get the government out of the ATC business.
If the air traffic control system was privatized, as it is in many countries, my guess is that we would see new equipment, better service, and more on time flights. Do you know of any situation where the government is involved that runs smoothly, efficiently, and without major problems (think post office, DMV, Health and Human Services, the VA).
jvh
One Response
I couldn’t agree more about the ATC system. Another great idea would be to lift some of the restrictions on discount airlines. More direct flights and international routes like NAA institutes will relieve a lot of the burden on airlines created by people taking 3 flights to get from point a to b. Thanks for the post!