10 chapters across the catalog
CNN Drone Propaganda and the Tallahassee "Near Miss"
CNN reported on a "stunning" near-miss between a US Airways regional jet and a camouflage-painted drone near Tallahassee, Florida. The report is criticized as pre-packaged propaganda designed to support FAA efforts to restrict public drone use. The segment compares the potential for a drone strike to the "Miracle on the Hudson" bird strike to heighten public fear.
Airline Merger Denials, Delta Virgin Atlantic Stake
The Justice Department moved to block the merger between American Airlines and US Airways, citing concerns over reduced competition and increased fares. The hosts mock the CEOs' claims that the merger would improve service. Additionally, it is noted that Delta Air Lines now owns a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, as Richard Branson seeks to offset the high costs of the airline industry.
Airline Taxation, Vice Taxes and Wealth Tax Proposals
The CEO of US Airways complained that airlines are taxed at 20%, a rate higher than that of "vices" like alcohol or tobacco. This leads to a broader discussion on the IMF's proposals for global carbon taxes and the hosts' ongoing analysis of a potential "wealth tax" as a solution to national debt.
Philadelphia Airport Liquid Explosives Hoax and TSA Testing
A US Airways flight from Philadelphia to Dallas returned to the airport following an anonymous tip regarding liquid explosives on board, which was later determined to be a hoax. The incident coincides with new TSA procedures involving the use of litmus paper to test passenger beverages at airport gates.
De'Shawn Marmon, a University of New Mexico football player, was arrested on a US Airways flight in San Francisco for refusing to pull up his saggy pants. The incident escalated from a dress code dispute to charges of trespassing and battery of a police officer. The hosts characterize the arrest as racist and an example of "bogus charges" used to punish non-compliance with arbitrary airline rules.
Bank of America and the Charlotte Massacre Reference
During his speech, President Obama compared the potential massacre in Benghazi to the size of Charlotte, North Carolina. The hosts speculate this was a coded message directed at Bank of America, which is headquartered in Charlotte. They link this rhetoric to a recent incident where a US Airways jetliner was found with a bullet hole after landing in Charlotte.
Tefillin Prayer Box, US Airways Flight Diversion
A US Airways flight was diverted after a flight attendant mistook a 17-year-old boy's tefillin—religious prayer boxes and straps—for a bomb. The hosts question the logic of diverting the plane if a real threat were present, noting the inconvenience to passengers.
A travel experience on a US Airways Airbus A321 notes the lack of onboard amenities and provides a strategy for securing cheap upgrades. The suggestion involves checking in at premium or first-class self-service desks to access better offers, such as a $15 upgrade, while avoiding long security lines at San Francisco International Airport.
The successful emergency water landing of US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River is analyzed from an aviation perspective. Questions are raised regarding the lack of official bird strike warnings (NOTAMs) and the absence of air traffic control recordings immediately following the event. The technical features of the Airbus A320 that allowed it to float are also discussed.
EasyJet, Southwest Airlines, PSA History, In-Flight Comedy
EasyJet and Southwest Airlines are compared regarding their "speedy boarding" models and operational efficiency. The history of Pacific Southwest Airlines (PSA) is explored, including its acquisition by US Airways and the subsequent removal of its iconic "smile" branding and in-flight comedy routines. The hosts reflect on the loss of personality in the airline industry as it transitioned into a spreadsheet-driven business.
