The Conversation at AirSafe.com podcast: Recent Episodes
Dr. Todd Curtis
On 11 November 2019, Todd Curtis was interviewed by station KNX of Los Angeles about how more than three dozen Southwest Airlines 737 airliners, all of which were purchased used from outside of the US, may have inadequate maintenance documentation.
Todd Curtis was interviewed by station CKTB of St. Catherines, Canada about how a 20-hour test flight by Qantas from New York to Sydney may pave the way for future long flights.
On 6 November 2019, Todd Curtis was interviewed by CKTB radio of St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada and discussed Canadian concerns about the requirements for returning the 737 MAX to service
Todd Curtis interview on ABC Australia radio show RN Drive about on 4 November 2019 about ongoing aviation issues with the 737 MAX and 737 NG aircraft
Todd Curtis interview on CFMJ Toronto on 15 April 2019 about ongoing Canadian aviation issues with the 737 MAX and with C130 aircraft.
Interview with CKTB radio of St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada where Todd Curtis discussed how an in improved, satellite-based air traffic control system may enhance airline safety.
On March 18, 2019, Todd Curtis discussed issues related to the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX on March 10, 2019. The interview was in both English and Spanish
Todd Curtis was interviewed by CKNW radio of Vancouver, Canada and discussed some of the ongoing concerns in the accident investigation, including potential conflicts of interest between Boeing and the FAA.
Todd Curtis interviewed on CJOB radio of Winnipeg, Canada on 11 July 2017 about a 7 July 2017 event in San Francisco where an Air Canada A320 nearly landed on a taxiway with four airliners awaiting takeoff.
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC World TV News on 27 May 2017 about massive British Airways IT system failure.
Todd Curtis interviewed MH370Latest.com creator Peter Paul, including a December 2017 discovery of a possible piece of MH370 debris in South Africa by professional cricket player Albie Morkel.
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC 5 about a 9 April 2017 event where police were called to remove a bumped passenger from a United flight in Chicago.
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC 5 Live about the 28 November 2016 crash of a LaMia Avro RJ85 near Medellin, Colombia that killed 71 passengers and crew, including several members of the Chapecoense soccer team.
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC Newsday on 29 November 2016 about the 28 November 2016 crash of a LaMia Avro RJ85 near Medellin, Colombia that killed 71 passengers and crew, including several members of the Chapecoense soccer team.
Todd Curtis interviewed by CKTB Radio about the 28 November 2016 crash of a LaMia Avro RJ85 near Medellin, Colombia that killed 71 passengers and crew, including several members of the Chapecoense soccer team.
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC World News about the 25 October 2016 decision by the UK government to authorize a new runway at London's Heathrow Airport.
Todd Curtis KIQI interview about the 28 November 2016 crash of a LaMia Avro RJ85 in Medellin that killed 71 passengers and crew, including several members of the Chapecoense soccer team.
Todd Curtis is the guest for episode 168 of the UAV Digest podcast where he discussed emerging drone issues in the wake of the implementation of Part 107 by the FAA.
Todd Curtis interviewed by Fox Business on 19 May 2016 shortly after the disappearance of EgyptAir flight MS804, which was flying from Paris to Cairo.
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC Newsday on 19 May 2016 shortly after the disappearance of EgyptAir flight MS804, which was flying from Paris to Cairo.
Todd Curtis interviewed by National Public Radio (NPR) on 19 May 2016 shortly after the disappearance of EgyptAir flight MS804, which was flying from Paris to Cairo.
Todd Curtis is interviewed on the show Rudy Maxa's World on 25 June 2016 about the how high temperatures can lead to airliner delays and cancellations.
On 11 April 2016, Todd Curtis was interviewed on the Tomi Lahren show on TheBlaze.com about how the TSA is lacking in the organizational processes that could improve the effectiveness of their security personnel.
On 31 March 2016, Todd Curtis was interviewed by CKTB radio about the Lockheed Martin airship, which can fill for transporting heavy cargo to areas lacking airports and other transportation infrastructure.
Todd Curtis was interviewed by CJOB radio of Winnipeg, Canada about the hijacking of an EgyptAir A320 on 29 March 2016, and whether this event should concern those who travel.
Todd Curtis was interviewed on radio CJOB of Winnipeg, Canada about the Brussels airport bombing, and how similar risks exist for airports around the world.
Todd Curtis discusses the history of the airline, and the circumstances that may have influenced the events that led to a crash.
Todd Curtis is the guest for episode 392 of The Airplane Geeks podcast where he discussed a range of aviation issues, including flight MH370.
Todd Curtis uses a KING television interview from 3 March 2016 to illustrate both the advantages and disadvantages of recorded interviews.
Todd Curtis interviewed on 8 March 2016 by CJOB radio in Winnipeg, Canada about what insights have been gained after more than two years of searching for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, and parallels with the 2009 crash of an Air France A330.
Todd Curtis interviewed on 8 March 2016 by KOMO radio in Seattle about the prospects for finding the aircraft after more than two years of searching for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
This version of AirSafe.com's Airline Safety Week in Review is taken from the audio content from the first use of Periscope to create a video version of the report, which discussed flight MH370 and AirSafe.com's use of social media.
Todd Curtis interviewed on 3 March 2016 by KING news in Seattle about a possible part from Malaysia Airlines MH370 that was found on the coast of Mozambique in late February 2016
On 26 February 2016, South African government officials inaugurated a solar power installation at George Airport. On 1 March 2016, Todd Curtis discussed some of the the implications of this development on the BBC radio show Newsday
Todd Curtis interviewed by Dale Goldhawk of Toronto's Zoomer Radio about laser threats to aircraft
Todd Curtis interviewed by BBC Five Live about a laser encounter on14 February 2016, invovolving a Virgin Atlantic A340 was struck by a laser shortly after takeoff from London's Heathrow Airport, forcing the crew to turn back.
Todd Curtis interview with Hollywood veteran and independent filmmaker Kenny Hargrove about his journey, both artistic and literal, that led him to direct his first full-length feature film, Snow: A woman’s journey towards love and destiny.
Todd Curtis was interviewed by Singapore radio station 938 Live about Malaysia Airlines imposing a temporary restriction on passenger baggage on some Malaysia to Europe flights.
The BBC Radio program Five Live interviewed Todd Curtis on 24 November 2015 about recent laser risks to pilots.
In this week's show, Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com discusses the bombing of the Metrojet A321and new restrictions on cargo on EgyptAir passenger flights.
BBC News interview 19 November 2015 with Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com about the US government new restrictions on some types of cargo on inbound EgyptAir passenger flights.
Todd Curtis interview with Russia's LifeNews television on 17 November 2015 about the Russian government announcement that a bomb was responsible for the crash of a Metrojet A321 in October 2015.
Todd Curtis interviewed by Radio 938 Live of Singapore about a UN decision that would allow better ATC over the ocean, making a flight MH370 situation less likely.
Todd Curtis is interviewed by CTV of Canada on 8 November 2015 about how the course of the investigation of the crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt on 31 October 2015 may change if it is determined that the crash was due to deliberate act.
Todd Curtis is interviewed by CTV of Canada on 1 November 2015 about the ongoing investigation of the crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt on 31 October 2015.
Todd Curtis is interviewed on the show Rudy Maxa's World on 7 November 2015 about the latest developments in the investigation of the crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt on 31 October 2015.
Todd Curtis is interviewed by BBC World News on 5 November 2015 about the growing consensus between the US and UK governments that a bomb may have caused the crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt on 31 October 2015.
Todd Curtis interviewed by Newsmax TV about the 30 October 2015 Dynamic Airways takeoff incident in takeoff incident in Fort Lauderdale, FL that involved an engine fire and emergency evacuation.
Todd Curtis is interviewed by BBC World Service on 4 November 2015 about the growing consensus that a bomb may have caused the crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt on 31 October 2015
Todd Curtis is interviewed by Australia's ABC Radio on 4 November 2015 about the mounting evidence that a bomb may have caused the crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt on 31 October 2015
Todd Curtis is interviewed by the BBC on 2 November 2015 on the latest findings in the investigation of the 31 October 2015 crash of a Metrojet A321 in Egypt.
On 13 October 2015, in a BBC interview, Todd Curtis discussed some of the likely issues to be addressed by a Dutch report on the crash of a Malaysia Airlines 777 in Ukraine on 17 July 2014.
On 17 October 2015, Rudy Maxa and Todd Curtis discussed a Dutch report on the missile strike that led to the downing of a Malaysia Airlines 777 over Ukraine on 17 July 2014.
On 24 August 2015, Todd Curtis was interviewed by CJOB radio of Winnipeg, Canada about safety issues brought up by a recent airshow accident in the United Kingdom that killed 11 people on the ground and seriously injured the pilot.
Todd Curtis and Ed Berliner of Newsmax TV discuss the 8 September 2015 British Airways takeoff incident in Las Vegas and whether issues iidentified in an earlier FAA Airworthiness Directive were involved.
Todd Curtis discussed with CTV of Canada the 16 August 2015 crash of a Trigana Air Service ATR 42 in Indonesia
On August 11, 2015, Todd Curtis and CJOB host Richard Cloutier discuss a recently released FAA report with detailed air traffic controller fatigue issues and steps taken to deal with it.
On 4 August 2015, Todd Curtis was interviewed by NJTV of New Jersey about several recent cases of drones flying in restriction airspace near airports, as well as posssible risks to passenger airliners.
On July 29, 2015, a suspected piece from Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 was found on a Reunion Island, which is in the Indian Ocean near Madagascar. On the following day, Todd Curtis was interviewed by the CKTB radio of Ontario, Canada about the debris and its possible relationship to MH370
On July 29, 2015, a suspected piece from Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 was found on a beach on Reunion Island. Later that day, Todd Curtis was interviewed by the BBC about the event and what next steps may be taken.
On July 13, 2015, Charles Adler of CJOB radio in Winnipeg, Canada interiviewed Todd Curtis about a proposed innovation that would increase the density of airline passenger seating, as well as what benefits passengers have when flights are delayed or cancelled.
On 2 July 2015, Todd Curtis was interviewed by Zoomer Radio, CFZM of Toronto, Canada, about a series of bomb threats directed at Canadian aviation, primarily WestJet Airlines.
On 29 June 2015, a WestJet 737 traveling from Edmonton to Toronto diverted to Winnipeg after a bomb threat. Six passeners were injured during the evactution. Todd Curtis discusses this threat and what it means for passengers.
Todd Curtis interviewed by the Radio New Zealand show Morning Report about issues surrounding a temporary nationwide shutdown of parts of the New Zealand air traffic control system on 23 June 2015.
On June 3, 2015, Todd Curtis was interviewed by WIND radio of Chicago about the results of a recent evaluation where in 67 of 70 attempts, testers were able to get simulated weapons and exploseves past TSA screeners.
On May 20, 2015, Charles Adler of CJOB radio in Winnipeg, Canada interiviewed Todd Curtis about whether a recent claim of a computer expert about hacking into an airliner's flight control system while in flight were possibly true, and Todd also discussed reasons why the recent Amtrak train crash in Philadelphia was treated more like a major plane crash by the news media.
On May 18, 2015, Todd Curtis discusses on Newsmax television about the allegations that computer seucurity expwert Chris Roberts hacked into a airliner's flight control system by way of the passenger enteratinment system.
On 2 April 2015, Andrea Jarmillo of TV Azteca Veracruz, Mexico interviewed Todd Curtis on the a range of issues around the Germanwings A320 crash and Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
On 2 April 2015, Todd Curtis discussed deliberate airliner crashes by pilots, including the Germanwings crash, with KING TV aviation reporter Glen Farley.
On 2 April 2015, Todd Curtis was a guest of Tony Goldhawk, host of the Goldhawk Fights Back show where they discussed a number of issues related to the March 2015 A320 crashes in France and Canada.
Todd Curtis discussed with CTV of Canada what the flight data recorder from the Germanwings crash may reveal, and the possible legal and regulatory changes that may come about because of the crash.
On 3 April 2015, Todd Curtis discussed the latest findings of the Germanwings investigation, and also the possible legal and regulatory changes that may come about because of the crash.
On 4 April 2015, Rudy Maxa and Todd Curtis discuss the latest findings of the Germanwings investigation, and also current FAA regulations that allow pilots with a history of depression or suicide attempts to fly.
On March 27, 2015, Charles Adler of radio station CJOB of Winnipeg, Canada discusses some of the security issues around the apparent deliberate crash on March 24, 2015 of a Germanwings A320 by its first officer.
Inverview with Newsmax television about two accidents on March 5, 2015, one involving a Delta Air Lies MD88 at La Guardia, and the other involving actor Harrison Ford.
Todd Curtis is interviewed by the BBC on 9 March 2015 about some of the issues that may be behind complaints that Persian Gulf airlines receive unfair subsidies.
Charles Adler of CJOB radio in Winnipeg, Canada interviewed Todd Curtis about issues around flight MH370, a crash involving actor Harrison Ford, and a runway mishap at La Guardia.
Todd Curtis was interviewed by CJAD radio of Montreal, Canada, where he discussed several scenarios that may explain why the aircraft went missing, as well as what may happen if this phase of the search fails.
On 5 March 2015, Harrison Ford was injured in a plane crash that occurred shortly after he took off from the Santa Monica Airport. This show analyzes his conversation with ATC, as well as provides audio from briefings provided by the NTSB and the Los Angeles Fire Department.
On January 23, 2015, Boeing fired four workers for using and dealing drugs while on the job. Glen Farley of KING TV in Seattle reports on the firings, and Todd Curtis disucusses how Boeing protects the public.
Charles Adler of CJOB radio and Todd Curtis discuss dealing with airline travel issues during major storms, and they also discuss a deadly F-16 crash at a NATO training exercise.
On 4 February 2015, TransAsia Airways flight GE235, which was an ATR 72-600, crashed shortly after takeoff from Taipei, Taiwan. Later that day, Todd Curtis was interviewed by CTV of Canada about the crash.
On 21 February 2015, Todd Curtis was interviewed by Rudy Maxa on the show Rudy Maxa's World about how the proposed FAA drone regulations would affect both commercial and casual drone users.
On 15 February 2015, Todd Curtis was interviewed by Al Jazeera America about the proposed FAA regulations for the commercial use of drones, and how these changes may affect other drone users.
Todd Curtis interviewed by Newsmax about reports on the last words spoken by the pilot of AirAsia flight QZ8501.
Todd Curtis interviewed by Al Jazeera America about the recovery of the flight data recorder from the wreckage of AirAsia flight QZ8501.
Todd Curtis interviewed by CTV television of Canada about the latest updates in the search for the wreckage of AirAsia flight QZ8501.
Todd Curtis interviewed by CJOB of Winnipeg, Canada about speculation that ice may have caused the loss of AirAsia flight QZ8501.
Todd Curtis and the Newmax hosts discuss holiday travel security issues raised by the departing head of TSA, and also discussed the potential risks from drone collisions.
Todd Curtis and the Charles Adler of radio station CJOB of Winnipeg, Canada discussed a number of issues around airline safety, including recent risky behavior by Russian military aircraft, air traffic control issues near London, and the threat from drones.
Last month's mishap that led to a loss of SpaceShipTwo has led to a new examination the value of space travel, and to expand content about space flight safety on AirSafe.com.
On the third day of the investigation, the NTSB revealed that the crew member in the right seat ulocked the feathering system. Also, SpaceShipTwo telemetery was lost about 15 seconds after the test flight began.
Summary of the initial media updates from the NTSB investigation into the 31 October 2014 crash of SpaceShipTwo north of Mojave, CA that killed one of the two pilots on board.
Summary of the initial media updates from the NTSB investigation into the 31 October 2014 crash of SpaceShipTwo north of Mojave, CA that killed one of the two pilots on board.
Todd Curtis is interviewed by radio station KIQI of San Francisco where he discussed the risk of getting infected by Ebola in an airplane, and why air travel bans may not protect the US from Ebola. Interview is in both English and Spanish.
Todd Curtis and the Charles Adler of radio station CJOB of Winnipeg, Canada discussed a number of issues around air travel and Ebola, including the how the public's percepection of risk drives their concerns about Ebola.
Todd Curtis and the Newmax hosts discuss the risks posed by having even one Ebola-infected passenger on an airliner, as well as the pros and cons of proposed travel bans and no fly lists.
Todd Curtis interview on WFAA television of Dallas where he discussed the kinds of risks passengers may face if someone showing Ebola related symptoms is on their flight, and why using the current no-fly list to protect passengers may not be approriate.
A nurse who helped to treat the first US Ebola patient was allowed to fly on an airliner by the CDC after showing mild Ebola symptoms. Todd Curtis discusses some of the relevant travel issues with CTV of Canada.
In the wake of the first US Ebola death, Todd Curtis and Charles Adler discussed some of the emerging issues around Ebola and air travel.
In this Al Jazeera America interview conducted on 29 September 2014, Todd Curtis discusses the effects that a 26 September 2014 fire had on air traffic in the US, as well as the difficulty of protecting complex systems such as these from harm when those systems rely on people in order to operate.
Todd Curtis and host Charles Adler discussed the impact that earthquakes and volcanic ash have on airline saftey, as well as insights into the search for fligh MH370.
Todd Curtis and host Charles Adler discussed the impact that earthquakes and volcanic ash have on airline saftey, as well as insights into the search for fligh MH370.
The FAA banned US carriers from Syrian airspace in a 19 August 2014 NOTAM. This was due to increasing threats to airliners in the region. The Voice of America interviewed aviation safety and security experts Scott Hamilton and Todd Curtis
Al Jazeera America interview conducted on 20 July 2014 discussiing the early phases of the the investigation into the crash of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17.
Todd Curtis has two interviews on BBC conducted after three airliners were lost in a one week span, including Malaysia Ailrines flight MH17, as well as an airliner in Asia, and another in Africa.
On the Charles Adler show on 30 July 2014, Todd Curtis discussed the difficulties of designing aircraft to be deal with threats from the kind of sophisticated surface to air missile systems that was apparently used to shoot down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine.
Todd Curtis addresses the public's increasing concerns about airline safety in the wake of three airliner crashes that happned within one week, starting with the shootdown of a Malaysia Airliners 777 in eastern Ukraine.
Todd Curtis discussed key issues to be discussed in an emergency meeting at ICAO headquarters that was called due to issues around Malaysia Airliners flight MH17, which was downed by a surface to air missile fired form an area with an active military conflict.
On 26 July 2014 Rudy Maxa interviewed Todd Curtis on his findings that from 1996 to 2014 there were 25 sequences of three or more serious aviation events where the interval between events was 10 days or fewer.
Todd Curtis was interviewed by CJAD radio of Montreal, Canada about recent airline safety and security issues, including the investigation into the crash of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, the temporary ban on flights to Ben Gurion Airport by the FAA, and a recently missing Air Algerie airliner
Interview on 23 July 2014 where Todd Curtis discussed the shootdown of flight MH17, the loss of flight MH370, and the 22 July 2014 FAA ban on flights to Ben Gurion airport. Interview was in both English and Spanish.
This is a compilation of seven radio and television interviews conducted in the two days after the crash of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17. These are a mix of radio and television interviews from media organizations in the UK, Canada, and Colombia. All but one were live interviews.
Rudy Maxa and Todd Curtis discuss some of the issues faced by travelers who may be headed to the states of Colorado and Washington to purchase and consume marijuana. These issues exists because while the state laws have changed, federal laws have not.
This show features a BBC interview conducted on July 9th that discussed the types of security procedures that may be uses for high risk flights from Europe to the US.
Dr. Curtis interviewed on the Rudy Maxa Show 5 July 2014 about recent security issues for selected flights from Europe to the US, including the relative lack of specific information released to the public about the nature of the threat.
This show features three BBC radio interviews conducted on July 2nd and 3rd that discussed security enhancements announced on July 2, 2014 for selected flights from Europe to the US.
Dr. Curtis interviewed by CJOB Radio on 23 June 2014 about recent developments in the search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
Dr. Curtis interviewed on the Rudy Maxa Show 31 May 2014 about recent developments in the search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, including Australia's decision to conduct an extensive mapping of the ocean floor before resuming the search.
ABC Radio Australia interview with Dr. Todd Curtis where he discussed comments made by a former Malaysian Prime Minister about Boeing's role in the investigation, and about the design of the 777.
This interview took place on 26 April 2014, just over a week after the KickSat satellite was successfully launched from Cape Canaveral. The KickSat carries over 100 miniaturized satellites, and these will be deployed later in the mission. In the interview, Zac discusses the planning and development process for KickSat, the technology that made the miniaturized Sprite satellites possible, and the volunteer network of radio operators who will detect the signals from the Sprites once they deploy.
At this point of the investigation, the initial underwater search was nearing completion an still no trace of the aircraft had been found. This interview touched on what the next steps may be and whether there would be enough resources to continue the search and investigation.
These three interviews, with National Public Radio, KOMO Radio of Seattle, and CTV of Canada, were from the 8th and 9th of April 2014 and came at a time when searchers were focused on locating the acoustic pingers associated with Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
These four interviews, with BBC, Radio New Zealand, Al Jazeera America, and KOMO Radio of Seattle, were from the first week of April 2014 and came at a time when searchers were focused on locating the acoustic pingers associated with Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
Dr. Todd Curtis and the morning show of MMM Radio Brisbane discussed issues about the search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH270 on 16 March 2014.
David Greene of National Public Radio's Morning Edition discusses the ongoing investigatiomn Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 with Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com on 20 March 2014.
Dr. Todd Curtis and Kathryn Ryan of the Nine to Noon show discussed issues about the search Malaysia Airlines flight MH270.
Dr. Todd Curtis discussed statements from the Malaysian prime minister about why Malaysia Airlines flight MH270 went off course, and also discussed the reliability of some of the reports as to the altitude of the aircraft during the flight.
Dr. Todd Curtis discussed ongoing issues in the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH270 with Dotun Adebayo of BBC Radio 5 Live, specifically the possibility that the aircraft could have flown for several thousand miles after being lost to radar.
On 3 February 2014, Dr. Todd Curtis, along with iCannabisRadio.com hosts Georgia Edson and Jeremy DePinto discussed a number of issues that may arise for airline travelers who may want to visit Colorado in order to legally consume recreational marijuana.
On 13 December 2013, Al Jazeera America Transportation Contributor Dr Todd Curtis interviewed by Al Jazeera America about the NTSB hearing on the Asiana flight 214 accident investigation.
On 31 October 2013, Dr. Curtis was interviewed by the BBC on the FAA rule chagnes that will allow airlines to get rid of most of the current restirctions on the use of pesonal electronic devices in flight.
On 29 August 2013, Dr. Curtis interviewed Dr. Richard Haines, the chief scientist of NARCAP, where they discussed his organization's efforts to reduce threats to aviation caused by unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).
Asiana flight 214, a 777 aircraft, crashed while landing in San Francisco, resulting in the deaths of two passengers. Capt. Bunn and Dr. Curtis share their thoughts on the crash in this wide-ranging conversation about the accident and about the media response to the crash.
In this interview from 17 June 2013, Dr. Todd Curtis interviewed Leslie Kean, New York Times best selling author of the 2010 book 'UFOs: Generals, Pilots, and Government Officials Go on the Record.' For more information, visit ufo.airsafe.com or Kean's site at ufosontherecord.com.
In this interview from 21 May 2013, Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com interviewed airline pilot and author Patrick Smith about his newest book, 'Cockpit Confidential.' For more on Patrick Smith and his work, visit patrick.airsafe.com.
The National Airlines 747-400, N949CA, had just departed on a cargo flight to Dubai, UAE on 29 April 2013 when the aircraft entered a stall and crashed near the end of the runway, killing all seven crew members.
Dr. Curtis talks about his new book AirSafe.com Airline Complaint Guide on the Rudy Maxa radio show, and invites the audience join the mailing list at subscribe.airsafe.com to get a free copy.
Dr. Curtis talks about his new book AirSafe.com Airline Complaint Guide on the Rudy Maxa radio show, and invites the audience join the mailing list at subscribe.airsafe.com to get a free copy.
Dr. Curtis talks about his new book AirSafe.com Airline Complaint Guide on the Rudy Maxa radio show, and invites the audience join the mailing list at subscribe.airsafe.com to get a free copy.
After the positive response to AirSafe.com's first ebook, AirSafe.com Baggage and Security Guide, we've decided to launch a new series of ebooks aimed at air travelers, and we'd like to ask for your help. Like the first ebook, this one will be provided without cost to the traveling public, and will provide air travelers with a valuable resource that will help them avoid or manage many common problems when they fly.
After the positive response to AirSafe.com's first ebook, AirSafe.com Baggage and Security Guide, we've decided to launch a new series of ebooks aimed at air travelers, and we'd like to ask for your help. Like the first ebook, this one will be provided without cost to the traveling public, and will provide air travelers with a valuable resource that will help them avoid or manage many common problems when they fly.
An April 19, 2012 bird strike near JFK brings up issues about FAA rules on the use of electronic devices by passengers, and why those rules may have to change.
Discussed a 2011 incident where a TSA screener was fired for making inappropriate comments about a passenger's sex toy, and provided advice traveling safely with a sex toy.
Discussion of two recent gear up landing events. The first on 1 November 2011 involved a LOT 767 that had been on a flight from Newark, NJ to Warsaw, Poland, and a second on 18 October 2011 involved an IranAir 727 that had been on a flight from Moscow to Tehran. No passengers or crew members were injured in either event. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
Discussion of two recent gear up landing events. The first on 1 November 2011 involved a LOT 767 that had been on a flight from Newark, NJ to Warsaw, Poland, and a second on 18 October 2011 involved an IranAir 727 that had been on a flight from Moscow to Tehran. No passengers or crew members were injured in either event. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
The BBC program The World Today interviewed Dr. Todd Curtis about the June 1, 2011 announcement by FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt that the FAA would start imposing fines of up to $11,000 on people who point lasers at aircraft. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
The BBC program Newshour interviewed Dr. Todd Curtis about the April 14, 2011 removal of the FAA official in charge of air traffic control services in the wake of a string of embarrassing incidents where air traffic controllers were asleep while on the job. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
The BBC program The World Today interviewed Dr. Todd Curtis about some of the issues surrounding the April 1, 2011 incident where a Southwest Airlines 737-300 experienced a rupture in the upper fuselage that led to a loss of cabin pressure and an emergency landing. The early findings of the NTSB investigation hint at a wider problem in the worldwide 737 fleet. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
WTOP radio in Washington, DC interviewed Dr. Todd Curtis about the issues raised in a March 30, 2011 article in the Washington Post newspaper about the relatively high rejected landing rates at Washington's National Airport. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
In this March 11, 2011 interview with Michelle Tafoya on WCCO radio in Minneapolis, Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com discussed the implications for passenger safety of the FAA order to remove emergency oxygen equipment from the lavatories of over 6,000 US airliners. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
In this January 8, 2011 interview with Rudy Maxa's World, Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.om discussed the most significant plane crashes and safety and security events of 2010. For more information on airline safety, visit http://www.airsafe.com or http://www.airsafenews.com.
In this November 6, 2010 interview with WTOP radio in Washington DC, Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.om discussed why the new TSA procedures using full body scanners and enhanced pat downs are were less effective than they should have been, in part because the changes were made without consulting pilots, passengers, and other who would be affected by security procedures. For more information on security procedures, visit http://tsa.airsafe.org.
Dr. Todd Curtis has two interviews with travel show host Rudy Maxa of Rudy Maxa's world where they discuss both the effectivelness of full body scanners and whether the TSA employee screening process may have allowed convicted rapists and other criminals convicted of sex related crimes to join the TSA and pat down passengers.
This BBC Radio 5 interview with Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com on November 5, 2010 came in the wake of two unusual engine failure events. On November 4, 2010, a Qantas A380 had an engine failure about 15 minutes after taking off from Singapore's airport. The following day, a Qantas 747 had another failure about two minutes after taking off from the same airport. Both planes landed safely.
Dr. Curtis was interviewed by the BBC radio program Europe Today about comments made by British Airways chairman Martin Broughton, who called for changes to security requirements for flights headed to the US. Brougton was especially concerned about the security differences between domestic US flights and international flights headed to the US.
Dr. Curtis was interviewed by CBS Radio News about the August 2010 detention of two passengers in Amsterdam on suspicion of being involved in some kind of terror related event. The passengers were later released because they had done nothing wrong.
Dr. Curtis was interviewed by KPAM radio in Portland, Oregon where he discussed three recent security events, including two situations where the behavior of unruly passengers led to the military escorting the airliners with fighter jets. Dr. Curtis also discusses several issues around the attempted bombing of Northwest Airlines Flight 253 on Christmas day 2009, including the role of air marshals.
The year 2009 had the second fewest fatal airline crashes in any year since AirSafe.com began it's annual review of airline safety events in 1996. This 14th annual review discusses eight fatal airline events, and 10 other noteworthy events from 2009.
The year 2009 had the second fewest fatal airline crashes in any year since AirSafe.com began it's annual review of airline safety events in 1996. This 14th annual review discusses eight fatal airline events, and 10 other noteworthy events from 2009.
Dr. Curtis and host of the Calgary Today show Whitney Dean of CHQR radio in Calgary, Canada discuss a number of issues related to the Christmas day bombing attempt on Northwest flight 253, including Nigerian airline security, a review of US terrorists databases, and the technologies and procedures that are currently used to prevent airliner bombing attempts.
As information about the unsuccessful bombing of Northwest Airlines flight 253 continues to be uncovered, some are questioning the usefulness of some of the security measures being implemented, and whether profiling may be needed to deter attacks.
The Transportation Security Administration, which is responsible for helping to secure US airports and airline flights, had accidentally released very sensitive information about their security procedures. The show highlights the most sensitive data that was revealed, and also tells listeners where they can download the complete manual, including all the previously blacked out material.
As the investigation into the unsuccessful bombing of Northwest Airlines flight 253 enters its early stages, there are already several security issues that are being discussed by the media, including short term security measures and issues with US government terrorist databases.
The Transportation Security Administration, which is responsible for helping to secure US airports and airline flights, had accidentally released very sensitive information about their security procedures. The show highlights the most sensitive data that was revealed, and also tells listeners where they can download the complete manual, including all the previously blacked out material.
The January 2009 ditching on the Hudson River showed how important social media was as a source of news and information, and how it showed how it makes individuals as powerful as traditional media in some areas. This show provides a general definition of social media and then provides specific examples of how it was used by AirSafe.com to expand the site's audience and to enhance the usefulness of its information.
The week of October 19, 2009 saw what could have turned into two airline disasters. In Atlanta, a 767 landed on the taxiway instead of the runway, and in Minneapolis an airline crew stopped communicating with the outside world for over an hour while flying past its destination by well over 100 miles.
The January 2009 ditching on the Hudson River showed how important social media was as a source of news and information, and how it showed how it makes individuals as powerful as traditional media in some areas. This show provides a general definition of social media and then provides specific examples of how it was used by AirSafe.com to expand the site's audience and to enhance the usefulness of its information.
In its latest update of fatal plane crash rates by aircraft model, AirSafe.com has identified the top five models with the lowest fatal crash rates. The analysis uses flight data through the end of 2008, and crash data through August 2009.
This show discusses the role that social media applications like Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr have had in shaping the public's relationship to aviation safety issues. Using the example of the January 2009 ditching of a US Airways aircraft in the Hudson River, the show discusses why any organization that intends to influence aviation safety policy or the aviation safety community should embrace these emerging technologies in order to better serve their members and the general public.
This show features two interviews with Vincent Dowd from the BBC World Service and Dr Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com. They discussed several issues surrounding the crash of Air France Flight 447, including differences in flight control philosophy between Airbus and Boeing, how aircraft manufacturers respond when one of their airplanes crash, and how this accident demonstrated how may be possible to use advanced technologies to supplement or even replace the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder.
Television infomercial celebrity Billy Mays died in his sleep less than a day after he was involved in a landing incident where he was struck in the head by one or more falling objects. US Airways Flight 1241, a 737-400, departed from Philadelphia, PA just after noon on June 27, 2009 on a nonstop flight to Tampa, FL.
On June 1st, 2009, Air France flight 447, a scheduled international flight from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, crashed in the Atlantic Ocean in an area roughly 600 miles, or 960 kilometers, off the northeast coast of Brazil. Several areas of suspected aircraft debris were also found near the estimated position of its last radio communication. All 216 passengers and 12 crew members, together representing over 30 nationalities, are missing and presumed dead.
On June 1st, 2009, Air France flight 447, a scheduled international flight from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, crashed in the Atlantic Ocean in an area roughly 600 miles, or 960 kilometers, off the northeast coast of Brazil. Several areas of suspected aircraft debris were also found near the estimated position of its last radio communication. All 216 passengers and 12 crew members, together representing over 30 nationalities, are missing and presumed dead.
On May 12th, 2009, the NTSB began a three-day public hearing about its ongoing investigation into the fatal February 2009 crash of a Continental Connection airliner in Buffalo, NY. Among the issues that came up were the possible roles of crew fatigue and crew training in the accident. During the last day of the hearing, noted aviation consultant Mike Boyd and I sat down with host Dave Berns of the "State of Nevada" program on KNPR radio in Las Vegas.
On 20 March 2009, an Emirates A340 aircraft, with 275 passengers and crew on board, was involved in a tail strike accident during takeoff from Melbourne, Australia. The aircraft suffered some damage, but there were no injuries to anyone on board. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) recently released preliminary findings that indicated that an incorrect weight had been used when making performance calculations prior to departure. The calculations were based on a takeoff weight that was 100 tons below the actual takeoff weight of the aircraft.
After a rapid spread of the swine flu virus, the World Health Organization announced an increase in its global alert level on April 27, 2009. So far, about 150 people have died from the disease, all in Mexico. In this report, AirSafe.com summarizes the current situation and offers passengers suggestions on how to deal with flu threats on their flight.
After a rapid spread of the swine flu virus, the World Health Organization announced an increase in its global alert level on April 27, 2009. So far, about 150 people have died from the disease, all in Mexico. In this report, AirSafe.com summarizes the current situation and offers passengers suggestions on how to deal with flu threats on their flight.
The aircraft was on a cargo flight from Guangzhou, China to Narita Airport near Tokyo, Japan. The aircraft bounced on landing, and contacted the runway a second time nose wheel first. The plane then rolled to the left, hit the runway with its left horizontal stabilizer and wing, caught fire and rolled over onto its back, coming to rest off the left side of the runway. Both crew members were killed. This was the first fatal accident at Narita Airport since it opened in 1978.
The aircraft was on a cargo flight from Guangzhou, China to Narita Airport near Tokyo, Japan. The aircraft bounced on landing, and contacted the runway a second time nose wheel first. The plane then rolled to the left, hit the runway with its left horizontal stabilizer and wing, caught fire and rolled over onto its back, coming to rest off the left side of the runway. Both crew members were killed. This was the first fatal accident at Narita Airport since it opened in 1978.
In March 2009, the AAIB released findings from the investigation of the January 2008 British Airways 777 accident that point to ice buildup in the fuel system as the key factor in the crash in London. On March 11th, 2009, the NTSB called for a redesign of the fuel system, and for the affected aircraft to have those changes installed within six months after the redesign is complete.
Recent findings from the AAIB accident investigation point to ice buildup in the fuel system as the key factor in the January 2008 crash of a British Airways 777 in London. On March 11th, 2009, the NTSB called for a redesign of the fuel system, and for the affected aircraft to have those changes installed within six months after the redesign is complete.
The aircraft, on a scheduled international flight from Istanbul, Turkey, to Amsterdam, Netherlands crashed in a field about a mile (1.6 km) short of the runway. The fuselage was broken into three major sections, and both engines were torn off. There was apparently no post crash fire. Three crew members, including both pilots, were killed, as were at least six others among the 135 passengers and crew members.
The aircraft, on a scheduled international flight from Istanbul, Turkey, to Amsterdam, Netherlands crashed in a field about a mile (1.6 km) short of the runway. The fuselage was broken into three major sections, and both engines were torn off. There was apparently no post crash fire. Three crew members, including both pilots, were killed, as were at least six others among the 135 passengers and crew members.
The aircraft departed the left side of runway 34R during takeoff from Denver International Airport. The scheduled, domestic passenger flight was en route to Houston. There were 83 occupants in the aircraft, and 32 were injured, five seriously. The aircraft was substantially damaged and experienced a post-crash fire, which was located on the right side of the aircraft.
The aircraft departed the left side of runway 34R during takeoff from Denver International Airport. The scheduled, domestic passenger flight was en route to Houston. There were 83 occupants in the aircraft, and 32 were injured, five seriously. The aircraft was substantially damaged and experienced a post-crash fire, which was located on the right side of the aircraft.
A Continental Connection Dash 8 aircraft crashed into a residential area near Buffalo, NY, killing all 45 passengers and four crew members on the aircraft, plus one person on the ground. The aircraft was on a scheduled domestic flight from Newark, NJ, and crashed about five miles from the Buffalo Airport at about 10:20 pm local time.
A Continental Connection Dash 8 aircraft crashed into a residential area near Buffalo, NY, killing all 45 passengers and four crew members on the aircraft, plus one person on the ground. The aircraft was on a scheduled domestic flight from Newark, NJ, and crashed about five miles from the Buffalo Airport at about 10:20 pm local time.
On January 18th, 2009, three days after the bird strike related ditching of US Airways Flight 1549 in New York, I interviewed bird strike expert Dr. Ron Merritt. He's currently the president of Detect, Inc., which manufactures bird strike avoidance radars. He was also at one time the military commander of US Air Force unit responsible for understanding and reducing bird strike hazards to Air Force aircraft. For the next half hour or so, you'll hear Ron and I discuss a variety of bird strike and wildlife hazard topics, including the need for wildlife experts in the US Airways accident investigation team, wildlife control policy issues, and the history of the key bird strike organizations in the US and Canada.
On February 9th, 2009, I was a guest on the "Escapes" radio show hosted by Ann Lombardi of the the Trip Chicks, who along Wendy Swartzell run the Atlanta area travel company Passport to Adventure. During the show, we discussed several of the issues around the previous month's ditching accident involving a US Airways A320 in New York, including what can be done about bird strike hazards, and how passengers should deal with fear of flying.
On 15 January 2009, a US Airways A320 encountered a flock of birds shortly after takeoff. Both engines lost power, apparently as the result of experiencing multiple bird strikes, and the crew was able to successfully ditch the aircraft in the Hudson River. All five crew members and 150 passengers survived the accident. The following day, Dr. Todd Curtis was a guest of Dean Richards on Chicago's WGN radio. They discussed the US Airways event, how the public's fear of flying is affected by extensive media coverage of airline accidents, and what kind of measures could be taken to deal with the threat of bird strikes.
On 15 January 2009, a US Airways A320 experienced a loss of power to both engines shortly after taking off from New York's LaGuardia Airport. The crew was able to successfully ditch the aircraft in the Hudson River near midtown Manhattan. Reportedly, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds shortly after takeoff. The aircraft reached an maximum altitude of about 3200 feet before it began to descend. After ditching, all five crew members and 150 passengers evacuated the aircraft. One passenger sustained serious injuries.
On 15 January 2009, a US Airways A320 experienced a loss of power to both engines shortly after taking off from New York's LaGuardia Airport. The crew was able to successfully ditch the aircraft in the Hudson River near midtown Manhattan. Reportedly, the aircraft encountered a flock of birds shortly after takeoff. The aircraft reached an maximum altitude of about 3200 feet before it began to descend. After ditching, all five crew members and 150 passengers evacuated the aircraft. One passenger sustained serious injuries.
The year 2008 had the fewest fatal airline crashes in any year since AirSafe.com began it's annual review of airline safety events in 1996. This 13th annual review discusses seven fatal airline events, and fifteen other significant events from 2008. As AirSafe.com looks back at the fatal and significant aviation safety events of last year, the most noticeable fact about this 13th annual review is that 2008 had fewer fatal airline events than any of the previous 12 years reviewed by AirSafe.com. The most was 19 fatal events in 1997, and the previous low was eight fatal events in 2003, 2006, and 2007.
The year 2008 had the fewest fatal airline crashes in any year since AirSafe.com began it's annual review of airline safety events in 1996. This 13th annual review discusses seven fatal airline events, and fifteen other significant events from 2008. As AirSafe.com looks back at the fatal and significant aviation safety events of last year, the most noticeable fact about this 13th annual review is that 2008 had fewer fatal airline events than any of the previous 12 years reviewed by AirSafe.com. The most was 19 fatal events in 1997, and the previous low was eight fatal events in 2003, 2006, and 2007.
Update on an 8 December 2008 crash involving a US Marine Corps F/A-18 jet based at the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station which crashed during approch about two miles short of the runway. The pilot successfully ejected, but four people, including two children, their mother, and their grandmother were killed in one of the two houses destoyed by the jet. No one else on the ground was injured.
Update on an 8 December 2008 crash involving a US Marine Corps F/A-18 jet based at the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station which crashed during approch about two miles short of the runway. The pilot successfully ejected, but four people, including two children, their mother, and their grandmother were killed in one of the two houses destoyed by the jet. No one else on the ground was injured.
AirSafe.com reviews the investigation into a January 2008 incident where an Air Canada pilot became mentally incapacitated and had to be removed from the cockpit. Once the first officer was removed, the captain was able to safely land the aircraft. The event caused some in the aviation community to question whether this kind of incident may have led to serious problems in the past. While a review of the available incident and accident record by AirSafe.com revealed no proven cases of a mentally incapacitated pilot deliberately causing death or serious injury to passengers, there have been several cases where such behavior was suspected, and one case where a pilot crashed an airliner on purpose.
This interview from the Radio America show The Gregg Knapp Experience focused on a TSA behavior detection program that singles out passengers for extra screening based on what the TSA describes as suspicious behavior. Since the program began in 2006, over 160,000 passengers were pulled aside for additional checks such as a pat-down search or an interivew. Less than one percent of those passengers were arrested, often on charges related to drugs or carrying false identification. The TSA didn't mention whether any of those searched or arrested were on any kind of terror watch list, or intended to commit a terrorist act. For more information about what passengers can do to deal with TSA security issues, please visit tsa.airsafe.org. There you'll a number of resources, including extensive information on current TSA rules, advice on packing, advice on traveling with duty free items such as alcohol and perfume, and links to airline complaint resources.
The accident earlier this month involving a Qantas Airbus A330 on a flight from Singapore to Perth seriously injured several passengers, but didn't result in any fatalities. The event drew substantial news media attention in Australia and Asia, but very little attention from major US media. Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com believes that this may be an example of how when it comes to airline events, it's difficult to get the attention of the US public, or of the policy makers in the US, if no one is killed, especially when there have not been any fatal airline events involving US airlines in over two years. The current 26-month period since the last fatal US event is the longest period without a passenger fatality on a US airliner since airlines in the US first began using jet aircraft in 1958. Dr Curtis suggests that there is always room for improvement, and one way to improve the system is to study the results of accident investigations, including the ongoing Qantas investigation. AirSafe.com provides links to that investigation at http://qantas.airsafe.org.
This show features an interview with Keesin Ng, a passengers on a Qantas A330 aircraft that experienced a violent in-flight upset during a flight from Singapore to Perth on 7 October 2008. About 75 passengers and crew members were injured during this event, with 14 hospitalized with serious injuries such as fractures and lacerations. The interview occurred three days after the event with passenger Keesin Ng, who provides additional details about the in-flight drama.
A Qantas Airbus A330-300, with 303 passengers and 10 crew members on board, was on a scheduled international flight from Singapore to Perth. While in cruise, the aircraft reportedly experienced some type of sudden and unexpected altitude change. The crew issued a mayday call before diverting the aircraft to the airport at Learmonth, near the town of Exmouth, about 1100 kilometers or 680 miles north of its intended destination of Perth. About 36 passengers and crew members were injured, with over a dozen severe injuries. AirSafe.com is providing additional information about the event is available at http://qantas.airsafe.org.
A Qantas Airbus A330-300, with 303 passengers and 10 crew members on board, was on a scheduled international flight from Singapore to Perth. While in cruise, the aircraft reportedly experienced some type of sudden and unexpected altitude change. The crew issued a mayday call before diverting the aircraft to the airport at Learmonth, near the town of Exmouth, about 1100 kilometers or 680 miles north of its intended destination of Perth. About 36 passengers and crew members were injured, with over a dozen severe injuries. AirSafe.com is providing additional information about the event is available at http://qantas.airsafe.org.
On September 3rd, 2007, adventurer Steve Fossett took off from Yerington, Nevada on a short flight in a Bellanca Super Decathlon, and went missing. After more than a year, a hiker found some of his personal effects high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California on September 29, 2008. Two days later, authorities spotted wreckage from his aircraft. Possible human remains were also found at the site.
The aircraft crashed into a steep granite slope at an elevation of about 10,000 feet, seven miles west of the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. The crash site is about 93 miles or 150 kilometers south of Yerington, Nevada. Pieces of the plane were scattered over a steeply sloped area, with the engine about 300 feet from the fuselage wreckage. There was also evidence of a post crash fire. Fossett was the only occupant.
On September 3rd, 2007, adventurer Steve Fossett took off from Yerington, Nevada on a short flight in a Bellanca Super Decathlon, and went missing. After more than a year, a hiker found some of his personal effects high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California on September 29, 2008. Two days later, authorities spotted wreckage from his aircraft. Possible human remains were also found at the site.
The aircraft crashed into a steep granite slope at an elevation of about 10,000 feet, seven miles west of the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. The crash site is about 93 miles or 150 kilometers south of Yerington, Nevada. Pieces of the plane were scattered over a steeply sloped area, with the engine about 300 feet from the fuselage wreckage. There was also evidence of a post crash fire. Fossett was the only occupant.
Travis Barker, former drummer for the music group Blink-182, Adam Goldstein, more widely known as DJ AM, and two other passengers were in a Learjet 60 aircraft that was on a chartered flight from Columbia, South Carolina to Van Nuys airport in Los Angeles. The crash, which happened shortly before midnight, occurred during takeoff. The crew was attempting to abort the takeoff because of what they thought was a blown tire. The NTSB also reported that accident investigators reviewing the recording heard sounds consistent with a tire blowout.
The crew was unable to stop the aircraft before it departed the runway. The plane struck a series of antennas and lights, crashed through a fence, crossed a nearby highway, and came to rest on an embankment where it burst into flames.
The crash and subsequent fire killed both flight crew members and two of the four passengers. The two survivors, Barker and Goldstein, escaped the aircraft but suffered severe burns.
The previous podcast reviewed the initial findings from the Spanish accident investigation. The video version of the podcast also included portions of a security camera video that captured the final moments of the flight. This podcast features a discussion that was originally recorded on August 23rd, 2008, three days after the crash of the Spanair MD82, and featured Capt. Tom Bunn of the SOAR fear of flying organization, and Capt. Steve Fisher, a veteran airline pilot who has flown for a major US airline for over two decades.
Dr. Todd Curtis reviews the preliminary findings in the investigation of the 20 August 2008 crash of a Spanair MD82 in Madrid. Spanish investigators reportedly found that the flaps were not properly configured for takeoff and that the crew flap configuration alarm was not activated. A video taken by the Spanish airport authorities also show that there was no indication of a fire or explosion while the aircraft was airborne.
Dr. Todd Curtis reviews the preliminary findings in the investigation of the 20 August 2008 crash of a Spanair MD82 in Madrid. Spanish investigators reportedly found that the flaps were not properly configured for takeoff and that the crew flap configuration alarm was not activated. A video taken by the Spanish airport authorities also show that there was no indication of a fire or explosion while the aircraft was airborne.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses the fatal event involving an Aeroflot-Nord 737-500 near Perm, Russia. There were 82 passengers and six crew on the aircraft. All 88 passengers and crew were killed, including six children and one infant.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses the fatal event involving an Aeroflot-Nord 737-500 near Perm, Russia. There were 82 passengers and six crew on the aircraft. All 88 passengers and crew were killed, including six children and one infant
When hurricanes or tropical storms threaten the Gulf or Atlantic coastal areas of the US, passengers across the country may be affected. Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com reviews some of the steps that passengers should take if hurricane or tropical storm approaches.
When hurricanes or tropical storms threaten the Gulf or Atlantic coastal areas of the US, passengers across the country may be affected. Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com reviews some of the steps that passengers should take if hurricane or tropical storm approaches.
Two days after the crash of a Spanair MD82 on 20 August 2008, Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com interviewed Patrick Smith, an airline captain with a major US carrier and the author of the book "Ask the Pilot." They discussed several crash-related issues, including the quality of media coverage of the event, and provided some insights into what areas may be important in the ongoing investigation.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses the fatal event involving an Itek Air 737-200. The aircraft was on a scheduled international flight from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to Tehran, Iran. About 10 minutes after takeoff, the crew turned back to the departure airport and also reported some kind of technical problem, crashing short of the runway. There were about 83 passengers and seven crew on the aircraft, including 17 members of Kyrgyzstan's national basketball youth team. Seven team members reportedly survived. At least 65 of those on board, including five of the seven crew members, were killed.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses the fatal event involving an Itek Air 737-200. The aircraft was on a scheduled international flight from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to Tehran, Iran. About 10 minutes after takeoff, the crew turned back to the departure airport and also reported some kind of technical problem, crashing short of the runway. There were about 83 passengers and seven crew on the aircraft, including 17 members of Kyrgyzstan's national basketball youth team. Seven team members reportedly survived. At least 65 of those on board, including five of the seven crew members, were killed.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses the fatal event involving a Spanair MD82 which crashed in Madrid, Spain on 20 August 2008 shortly after taking off on a scheduled domestic flight to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. There were 162 passengers and 10 crew members on board, and 153 of the 172 occupants were killed.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses the fatal event involving a Spanair MD82 which crashed in Madrid, Spain on 20 August 2008 shortly after taking off on a scheduled domestic flight to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands. There were 162 passengers and 10 crew members on board, and 153 of the 172 occupants were killed.
This show features a segment from the the Discovery Channel series "Survive This!" That segment featured the 21 September 2005 landing gear event involving a jetBlue A320 near Los Angeles. During the clip, Dr. Todd Curtis explains some of the factors that led to a dramatic, but safe end of the flight. The series "Survive This!" ran for one year during the 2007 season
This show features an interview with Time Magazine senior writer Amanda Ripley, Author of the book "The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes And Why." Amanda has traveled the world, writing about and studying a number of disasters, including the attacks of 9/11, and the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. She currently covers both risk and homeland security issues for Time Magazine.
Dr. Todd Curtis reviews information from provided by Australian investigators that points to a aircraft systems failure as a possible cause of the explosive decompression event. Also, fear of flying expert Capt. Tom Bunn discusses the media's response to this incident.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curtis discusses key online technological innovations, including search engines, blogs, and subscription services, that have influenced how AirSafe.com changed over time to accommodate the needs of the audience.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curtis reviews the initial information about a Qantas rapid decompression event over the Pacific Ocean which led to a diversion to Manila. Dr. Curtis also discusses possible causes of the event, as well as selected previous episodes where an airliner had a decompression event coupled with a loss of part of the fuselage.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curtis reviews the initial information about a Qantas rapid decompression event over the Pacific Ocean which led to a diversion to Manila. Dr. Curtis also discusses possible causes of the event, as well as selected previous episodes where an airliner had a decompression event coupled with a loss of part of the fuselage.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curtis talks about how he has been able to get interviewed by major national and international news media organizations, and he describes how he used his experiences, credentials, and published works to attract the attention of producers and editors at newspapers, magazines, and television.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curtis shares his observations of how visitors use the site, and how these traffic pattern continues to influence the content of the site. Research on media behavior around plane crashes, especially the events reported by the New York Times, was the basis of the original design of the site. After the site's launch, visitor traffic patterns and visitor feedback became the key factors that influenced site design and site content.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curtis discussed some of the key Internet resources that have made it possible to build and maintain an audience, and how those resources have changed over the years. In addition, he'll also talk about the criteria and guidelines that determine what kind of information shows up in the site.
AirSafe.com creator Dr. Todd Curits reflects on the 12 years that AirSafe.com has been in operation, and introduces the "secrets" of AirSafe.com, which are the tools, insights, and lessons learned that have been key to the development of the site and its audience.
This show features an Al-Jazeera broadcast of the recovery of the surviving passengers four days after the crash. The only death was to the pilot, who died two days after the crash.
This show features an Al-Jazeera broadcast of the recovery of the surviving passengers four days after the crash. The only death was to the pilot, who died two days after the crash.
The aircraft was on a scheduled international flight from San Salvador, El Salvador, to Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The aircraft landed, overran the runway, went down an embankment, and struck several vehicles. One of the six crew members and two of the 118 passengers were killed. Two people outside the aircraft were also killed.
This show features two pioneers in the treatment of fear of flying, Captain Tom Bunn and Lisa Hauptner of SOAR fear of flying organization. These two experts, who are both trained therapists, reveal a number of surprising facts about fear of flying, including the roots of fear of flying and the fact that the fear is often only indirectly related to flying.
This initial report on the crash of a TACA A320 in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The aircraft ran off the runway and hit several cars on a nearby road. Early media reports indicate that two passengers and the captain were killed, as well as an occupant in a car hit by the aircraft. This was the first fatal jet airliner event for TACA.
This interview from the Radio America show The Gregg Knapp Experience focused on issues that the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee discussed in their hearings that started on April 3rd, 2008. Topics covered included the threats that were alleged to have been directed at whistleblowers in the FAA who wanted to report problems with the oversight process.
This interview from the BBC show The World Today focused on issues that the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee discussed in their hearings that started on April 3rd, 2008. Topics covered included the role of whistleblowers in the FAA and whether the FAA is doing their job of protecting those who fly.
This interview from the Don Shelby Show on WCCO radio in Minneapolis focused on issues that the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee discussed in their hearings that started on April 3rd, 2008. Topics covered included the risks passengers may face as a result of recent maintenance problems, and issues around airline maintenance that us outsourced to companies outside of the U.S.
This discussion with KTAR host Darrell Ankarlo focused on issues that the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee would likely discuss in their hearings that started on April 3rd, 2008.
This was a roundtable discussion, first broadcast on the Kojo Nnamdi Show on WAMU radio on 1 April 2008, featuring Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com, as well as the Editor-in-Chief of Aviation Daily Jim Matthews, and the vice president for operations and safety of the Air Transport Association Basil Barimo.
Dr. Todd Curtis discusses a proposed $10.2 million dollar fine against Southwest Airlines and how problems with FAA safety inspection process allowed the airline to continue to fly airplanes that were not in compliance with a mandatory safety inspection. Dr. Curtis also discusses the role the FAA played in allowing Southwest to fly out of compliance aircraft, and how subsequent actions by the FAA may ensure that all airline operators may be following the rules but may also inconvenience passengers and undermines their confidence in the FAA.
Patrick Smith and Dr. Todd Curtis discuss several issues, including popular misconceptions about airline safety, the role of the Internet in shaping the public's perception of airline safety, as well as how the TSA should be changed in order to enhance airline security.
In this show, Dr. Todd Curtis provides passengers with an overivew what is allowed and not allowed either in carry on or checked baggage, and he also provides insights into how to avoid the most common airport security hassles.
Third update on the ongoing investigation into the accident at London's Heathrow Airport involving a British Airways 777. This update is based on information released by the AAIB on 18 February 2008, and focuses on analyses of the fuel system, the engines, and their associated control systems.
In this show, Dr. Todd Curtis provides passengers with an overivew what is allowed and not allowed either in carry on or checked baggage, and he also provides insights into how to avoid the most common airport security hassles.
In this show, Dr. Todd Curtis provides passengers with an overivew what is allowed and not allowed either in carry on or checked baggage, and he also provides insights into how to avoid the most common airport security hassles.
The first part of the podcast is a discussion of the suspected turbulence event on 10 January 2008 involving an Air Canada A319 with a focus on the possible role that it may have been caused by wake turbulence from another aircraft. The second part of the podcast commemorates the 22nd anniversary of the last flight of the space shuttle Challenger by replaying audio clips from the launch and from President Reagan's address to the nation.
Second update on the ongoing investigation into the accident at London's Heathrow Airport involving a British Airways 777. This report is based on information released by the AAIB on 23 January 2008.
Second update on the ongoing investigation into the accident at London's Heathrow Airport involving a British Airways 777. This report is based on information released by the AAIB on 23 January 2008.
First update on the ongoing investigation into the accident at London's Heathrow Airport involving a British Airways 777. This report is based on information released by the AAIB shortly after the crash.
First update on the ongoing investigation into the accident at London's Heathrow Airport involving a British Airways 777. This report is based on information released by the AAIB shortly after the crash.
Initial report of a non-fatal accident at London's Heathrow Airport involving a British Airways 777
Overview of a minor aircraft incident involving Senator Barack Obama, and the related public policy issue of managing air travel risks of presidential candidates.
Overview of a minor aircraft incident involving Senator Barack Obama, and the related public policy issue of managing air travel risks of presidential candidates.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews a possible turbulence event that injured several passengers and crew members.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews a possible turbulence event that injured several passengers and crew members.
Dr. Todd Curtis updates the status of two airline accidents that occurred in the first week of January 2008, and requests that members of the audience submit details about a 2 January 2008 takeoff accident in Tehran, Iran.
Dr. Todd Curtis updates the status of two airline accidents that occurred in the first week of January 2008, and requests that members of the audience submit details about a 2 January 2008 takeoff accident in Tehran, Iran.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews the eight fatal airline events of 2007, and also looks at fatal event trends over the last decade.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews the eight fatal airline events of 2007, and also looks at fatal event trends over the last decade.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews a crash involving an Air France A340 in Toronto, Canada on 2 August 2005. Also discussed are evacuation issues brought up by this event, and advice for passengers that may help them survive a crash.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews the six basic types of aircraft crash positions that passengers and cabin crew may face in flight.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation reviews the six basic types of aircraft crash positions that passengers and cabin crew may face in flight.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation provides an overview of the 30 November 2007 fatal event involving Atlasjet of Turkey.
Dr. Todd Curtis of the AirSafe.com Foundation provides an overview of the 30 November 2007 fatal event involving Atlasjet of Turkey.
Dr. Todd Curtis and Don Shelby discussed sevaral issues related to the flight characteristics of high-performance single engine aircraft like the Cirrus R22.
During a 2007 audit of airport security procedures, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigators sucessfully passed through TSA checkpoints with components for a number of improvised explosive devices. Dr. Todd Curtis of AirSafe.com and Dr. Randolph Hall of USC discussed the security implications of these findings.
In recent years, several high profile airliner crashes in Africa have called into question the level of safety and security of the continent's airlines. In the November 6, 2007 edition of the Perspectives program of the Voice of America, Dr. Todd Curtis was one of several noted aviation experts who spoke about the role of aviation in Africa and also about the factors that contribute to Africa's a relatively high accident rate.
After a man with a suspected case of infectious tuberculosis had traveled on several flights over about a two week period, there was concern about possible risks to other passengers. This podcast features a May 31, 2007 MSNBC interview of both Dr. Todd Curtis that discussed the risks faced by other passengers and the options that airlines have for dealing with those risks.
Dr. Todd Curtis provides insight and background into his August 29, 2007 interview on the CNN program American Morning. The interview focused on actions taken by airlines and civil aviation authorities in the aftermath of a a fire that destroyed a China Airlines 737-800 aircraft after a landing in Okinawa, Japan.
AirSafe.com reviews the most significant airline safety and security events of 2006, including five airliner crashes that killed every passenger.
In the wake of a foiled attempt to bomb airliners using liquid explosives, the rules on what is allowed on aircraft have changed dramatically, and AirSafe.com addresses those changes in this podcast.
A review the details of a plot uncovered by British authorities that prevented the possible destruction of up to 10 U.S. airliners. Also provides suggestions on how passengers can do their part to help prevent future threats to aircraft.
A review of recent noteworthy complaints submitted to AirSafe.com, with a focus on delays, issues with unaccompanied children, lost luggage, and the fact that in most cases the airline is not required to provide any compensation. This conversation also discusses discusses ways to reduce or eliminate the risks of some of these problems.
Provides advice for reducing the risk of having your baggage lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed. This conversation also discusses specific strategies for reducing your risk of laptop computer theft. Additional resources include links to overhead storage bin risks, information about prohibited items, and a guide on how to file a complaint.
This conversation reviews the the different kinds of compensation that passengers may receive as a result of flight delays and cancellations, highlighting the differences between U.S. airlines and airlines from the European Union.
AirSafe.com offers a basic overview of the rules many airlines have for unaccompanied children, and tips for avoiding many of the problems of travel by unaccompanied children.
AirSafe.com offers basic advice for making complaints about your air travel experience and how to document a complaint to give you the best chance of getting compensation.
AirSafe.com explores privacy and personal space issues centering on the display of adult oriented material on the passenger personal entertainment devices of airline passengers, and also presents suggested guidelines for the responsible use of personal entertainment devices.
AirSafe.com reviews the 17 most significant airline safety and security events of 2005, including six crashes that killed all passenger and crew.
Even four years after 9/11, many passengers still have questions about what is allowed on airliners, questions that AirSafe.com addresses in this podcast on on its web site.
Of the many questions submitted to AirSafe.com over the years, these 10 represent the most frequently asked categories of questions.
The US, UK, France, and several other countries have publicized lists of countries and airlines that are banned from operating in their respective country. AirSafe.com founder Dr. Todd Curtis explains why these governments have not gone far enough to inform the public.