Posted on 10/27/2025 1:47:56 PM PDT by E. Pluribus Unum
The Wright brothers made history on the morning of December 17, 1903 by undertaking the first powered, sustained, and controlled airplane flight from level ground without assistance at takeoff. Ironically, less than three decades later, the first proven act of air sabotage in commercial aviation occurred. On October 10, 1933, a United Airlines flight was destroyed, with nitroglycerin probably serving as the explosive agent. Although never solved, the bombing was believed to be an act of gangland violence.
At least 86 commercial aircraft bombings have occurred since the Wright brothers made air transportation possible. The reasons have varied—from suicides, to schemes for insurance money, to assassinations—as have been the means for smuggling bombs onboard, such as an innocent passenger’s bag or installation into a laptop. And 9/11 showed us bombs are not even needed. One possessing the right evil ideological intent will find a way to turn the aircraft itself into an airborne bomb to target whatever is desired.
The airline industry has been behind the learning curve while trying to stay ahead of new bombing tactics. But would-be bombers have a tremendous advantage, as they obviously have no concern about how many innocent lives are lost to achieve whatever their goal may be.
The industry remains behind today as the next phase of commercial aviation terrorism is evolving with minimal focus on an appropriate solution. And, just like drones have introduced a radical change in warfare by which the attacker can be thousands of miles away from his target, such an advantage is already partially in the hands of the terrorist.
Like the industry has shown numerous times in its history, it often awaits a tragedy to implement a solution. But, while previous bombings have allowed for such solutions to be implemented relatively quickly, the next phase of terrorism will give...
(Excerpt) Read more at americanthinker.com ...
We rely way too heavily on computer systems & networks. And the dangers of hacking into these systems seems to be beyond the control of those in charge.
In the case of domestic travel:
“If one has plenty of time, fly.
If one wants to get there on time, drive.”
There's a reason it's been 80 years since Japan attacked the U.S. They learned their lesson and they are a completely different culture now than they were before WW2. I'm sure many thought there was no way they could be converted into peaceful people. And many thought the same about Germany.
We failed to give the Middle East the same education when we had the chance. Evidently "winning over hearts and minds" isn't a long term solution.
Yep. If it’s 12 hours or less I’ll drive.
I figure an hour to the airport, two hours early, 3 hour or so flight, 1 hour to deplane and get luggage, 45-1 hour for rental car. That’s 8 hours. I will gladly sit in my vehicle, not around sick or annoying people for that additional 4 hours for safety and sanity reasons.
Last 12 hour drive was from ATL to DAL. That’s was not a very scenic drive but classic rock blasting made it an enjoyable trip. Oh and it was just a weekend so I came right back on that Monday.
Yeah ... right ...
I'm headed for Grand Junction, CO ... from West Virginia.
In your opinion, should I fly or drive?
Depends on some details of your current situation and the length of stay at the destination.
Do you have a reliable ride?
Are you retired or otherwise have vacation?
Do you have a command performance at time certain at the destination?
Will you have to rent a ride in Colo.?
Will the ATC crew still be unpaid at the time of travel?
Business or pleasure?
Whant to see anything on the ways out and back?
Flying commercial or private?
Probably other conciderations.
Commercial. It’s business. I need to get there “today”, and it absolutely doesn’t take more than 10 minutes to get a car at GJT. BTDT. (Not actually going there today ...)
When I retire, I’m going to:
1) Take my mobile phone to the range and shoot it.
2) Drive all over America and to hell with clocks.
Drive! There is a lot to see along the way. Maybe hundreds of miles between attractions, but, hey.
Meet me at the range when you are ready.
I have actually done that. Twice. I-70 from Denver down to GJ is ... exciting. But seriously ... It's a 2-3 day drive; more if you're sightseeing. The idea that driving is always faster or "better" (whatever that may mean) is ridiculously false.
Still have a few years to go ...
Exactly. Those who are retired have the time to drive. But of course then the senility is a risk to them and others on the road.
Flying is a necessary function for many, many people in this country.
Or, as a friend of mine (who was a pilot) used to say:
“Time to spare? Go by air!”
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.