Transportation
Transportation Security: TSA Could Strengthen Oversight of Allegations of Employee Misconduct
The GAO found that in 2011, a TSO at the Orlando International Airport pleaded guilty to federal charges of embezzlement and theft for stealing more than 80 laptop computers and other electronic devices, valued at $80,000, from passenger luggage. TSOs engaging in misconduct raise security concerns because these employees are charged with helping to ensure the security of our nation's aviation system. more »
First Flight: The Tradition of Airplanes Communicating With the Earthbound Goes On
Margaret Cullison writes: Flush from the post-war economic boom, Dad bought his first airplane, a 1946 cream and red Taylorcraft BC-12D. I recall the anticipation stirring in the pit of my stomach as we waited for someone to prime the propeller and yell out above the noise of the wind and the engine, "all clear", as he waved us out onto the runway. I recall the instant the wheels left the ground, that first gentle lift into the air, and a magic I didn't understand moved us skyward. more »
Perilous Crossings and Pedestrians At Risk: Permitted Left Turns Complicated by a Hodgepodge of Confusing Signals
"Some people walk because they choose to do so. Some of these may have chosen not to own a passenger vehicle. Others may have vehicles available but choose to walk for some of their travel. On the other hand, there are people who walk because they have little choice of alternative modes. These are largely captive walkers. While risk of riding in a passenger vehicle has been declining considerably over the last several decades, it is the captive walkers who have been adversely affected by the increased exposure to vehicle traffic." The Fatality Risk of Walking in America more »
My Quarter-Century Daily Destination, Grand Central Terminal, Celebrates 100 Years
Editor's Note: Aside from my own home and the Time-Life Building across from Radio City Music Hall, Grand Central Station was the building I spent time in, going to and from my job It was familiar, imposing, welcoming and in the last analysis, spectacularly beautiful. It is said that more than 21,600,000 annual vistors come to the terminal making it the 6th most popular tourist destination in the world. more »