The hottest Aviation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

From ‘Defund the Police’ to ‘Defund Air Traffic Control.’

Breaking the News • 923 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Safety Regulation Aviation
  1. The recent crash-landing of a commuter jet in Toronto didn't directly result from any recent layoffs, but future safety may be at risk due to those layoffs.
  2. Air traffic controllers and other safety professionals provide crucial oversight for safe flying. Reducing their numbers can lead to overlooked issues and potential disasters.
  3. Understanding the importance of air safety is vital. Cuts to safety teams, like those happening now, can endanger everyone who flies.

‘This is Serious Business. You Better Start Paying Attention.’

Breaking the News • 2090 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policies Aviation Regulations Public Safety
  1. The recent aviation disasters are not linked to the current administration, but future incidents may be due to their policies. It's important to pay attention to how these changes affect safety.
  2. The discussions around the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are concerning. Quick changes to air safety measures could lead to serious accidents.
  3. A podcast diving deep into an aviation accident reveals crucial insights about helicopter routes and landing complexities, emphasizing the serious nature of air travel and safety.

Another Bad Day for Aviation.

Breaking the News • 4655 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📰 News Aviation Public Safety Human Interest Government
  1. A recent plane crash in Philadelphia highlights the quick response and professionalism of air traffic controllers during emergencies. They had to manage a situation as they realized the plane had not reported back after takeoff.
  2. Despite criticism and abuse from some public figures, many public servants work hard behind the scenes to keep everyone safe. It's important to recognize their dedication, especially in high-pressure situations like aviation accidents.
  3. The incident raises questions about air traffic management and safety in busy airspace, showing that there are many factors at play in aviation incidents beyond the immediate events of a crash.

It Had Been 16 Years Since a Fatal US Airlines Crash.

Breaking the News • 3963 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📰 News Aviation Accidents Safety Regulation Transportation
  1. There was a tragic collision between a regional jet and a military helicopter over the Potomac River, marking the first fatal airline crash in the U.S. in 16 years.
  2. The area around major airports is tightly controlled, but something went wrong this time that allowed the two aircraft to come into conflict.
  3. Changes to aviation safety regulations, like disbanding key advisory groups, could have long-term effects on air travel safety in the future.

America’s Air-Traffic Control System Is an International Disgrace

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1048 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Regulation Aviation Infrastructure Safety
  1. America's air-traffic control system is outdated and struggling, with too few controllers using old technology.
  2. Recent incidents highlight the mismanagement and dangers of the air traffic system, showing it has become one of the worst in the developed world.
  3. In comparison to systems in other countries like Canada, America's methods feel very outdated and inefficient.
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American Eagle 5342 and the Worst Club There Is

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 788 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📰 News Disasters Aviation Journalism Reporting Current Events
  1. The crash of American Eagle flight 5342 was sudden, giving passengers only a couple of seconds to react before impact. This highlights how quickly disasters can occur in aviation.
  2. The author reflects on a past aviation incident involving their father, suggesting that experiencing a longer fall can be more agonizing for those on board.
  3. Overall, the piece touches on the complexities and emotional toll associated with air disasters and the personal connections many have to such tragedies.

A Cycle of Misery: The Business of Building Commercial Aircraft

Construction Physics • 27768 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
💼 Business Aviation Manufacturing Industry Competition Economics
  1. Developing a new commercial aircraft is incredibly expensive, with development costs exceeding billions and posing significant financial risks to companies.
  2. Aircraft manufacturers face challenges in predicting market demand and trends, with incorrect guesses leading to financial losses and potentially fatal setbacks.
  3. Given the high costs and risks involved in developing new aircraft, manufacturers often opt to revise existing models to mitigate costs, keep pilot training minimal, and maximize efficiency.

Why Is It So Hard to Build an Airport?

Construction Physics • 22131 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
💼 Business Infrastructure Aviation Construction Economics Environmentalism
  1. Airports are crucial for global economy, with aviation contributing significantly to GDP.
  2. Building airports is notoriously difficult due to opposition from various interest groups, particularly related to noise concerns.
  3. Despite challenges in airport construction, the aviation industry has managed to adapt and accommodate increased air travel by adding runways, expanding infrastructure, and increasing passenger capacity per plane.

Problems at Viasat (VSAT)

The Bear Cave • 349 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
💼 Business Tech Companies Market Competition Aviation Government Influence
  1. Viasat is facing tough competition from SpaceX's Starlink, which offers better internet services with lower costs and faster speeds. This competition is stealing customers from Viasat's main markets.
  2. Starlink's quick response during disasters, like Hurricane Helene, shows its effectiveness and has gained recognition from notable figures like President Trump. This has raised its profile and user demand.
  3. Viasat's challenges are significant enough that many believe it could struggle to survive, as Starlink continues to grow and dominate the satellite internet industry.

United Airlines Flight 2007 GUA-ORD from Guatemala to Chicago diverted on March.11, 2023 due to "incapacitated pilot" who had chest pains - now 3rd pilot incident this month

COVID Intel - by Dr.William Makis • 3184 implied HN points • 13 Mar 23
📰 News Aviation
  1. United Airlines Flight 2007 from Guatemala to Chicago was diverted due to an incapacitated pilot with chest pains.
  2. This incident marks the 3rd pilot issue for United Airlines this month.
  3. The plane diverted to Houston's George Bush International Airport for the emergency.

How A Local Photographer Captures Aerial Photos Of The B-2 Stealth Bomber Flyover At The Rose Bowl

Huddle Up • 49 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Photography Events Aviation Art Local
  1. A local photographer has a unique ability to capture stunning aerial photos of the B-2 Stealth Bomber during its flyover at the Rose Bowl. It's cool to see how he mixes his passion for photography with major events.
  2. He enjoys the freedom of writing a newsletter without any restrictions, letting his creativity flow. It must be nice to write about what truly interests him!
  3. Sharing such events helps connect people to their community and create memorable experiences. Those images can make moments even more special for fans and attendees.

Aeroplanes, Airships and Beta Bias

Pessimists Archive Newsletter • 530 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Innovations Comparisons Bias Aviation History
  1. In 1908, some dismissed the idea of flying machines heavier than air, underestimating their potential usefulness.
  2. The 'Beta Bias' is the tendency to underestimate the potential of new technologies by comparing them to established alternatives.
  3. Every nascent innovation has the potential for growth and improvement, often underestimated in early comparisons.

#14: Five ideas from the airline business

Bureau of Adventure • 119 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
💼 Business Aviation Marketing Operations Economics Strategy
  1. Airlines can use different route models, like hub-and-spoke or point-to-point. Each has its benefits, with point-to-point focusing on direct flights and hub-and-spoke maximizing connections.
  2. Focusing on trip costs rather than unit costs can be more effective. Sometimes a smaller plane with higher costs per seat is better for fewer passengers, rather than trying to fill a large plane.
  3. Using an 'out and back' flying strategy can help airlines run more efficiently. It allows them to keep crew costs low and isolate delays, while also making it easier to cancel unprofitable flights.

The ‘Cultural’ Questions that Follow the Alaska Airlines Blowout.

Breaking the News • 795 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
📰 News Aviation Safety Investigation
  1. The incident with Alaska Airlines did not likely contribute to the recent string of aviation close calls, but it could reveal systemic issues.
  2. The plane experienced a panel blowout at 16,000 feet, with no passengers seated next to the gaping hole, showcasing the clean structural break.
  3. In a scenario like this, with a hole in the airplane at high speed and altitude, it would be both terrifying and extremely dangerous.

A military and civilian aviation veteran explains Wednesday night's crash

Unreported Truths • 100 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📰 News Aviation Accidents Military Regulations Safety
  1. The crash was influenced by multiple failures in communication, coordination, and pilot training. Better planning and checks could have prevented it.
  2. Weather conditions, like strong winds, played a significant role in the incident. These factors made flying more complicated for both the helicopter and the airplane.
  3. The helicopter was flying higher than allowed, which was a big mistake. Following the set altitude rules could have avoided the crash completely.

Hype or Hot Air

The Last Bear Standing • 36 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Aviation Transportation Electric Vehicles Innovations
  1. Electric air taxis, or eVTOLs, are being developed to provide a new form of urban transportation with benefits like lower noise and zero emissions. However, the actual implementation faces many challenges.
  2. There are many companies competing to create eVTOLs, aiming for a future where flying taxis could become common in crowded cities. But just because the technology exists doesn't mean it's easy to bring it to market.
  3. Understanding the economics behind eVTOLs is crucial. It's not just about building them; they also need to make financial sense for businesses and consumers to use them effectively.

Photo of the Day

Photo of the Day • 235 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
💾 History World War II American history Aviation
  1. Charles Lindbergh's fame led him to live in Europe and gather intelligence on Germany's military air power.
  2. Lindbergh faced criticism for accepting an award from Herman Goring in light of increasing antisemitism and Nazi actions in Germany.
  3. Some believed Lindbergh had Nazi sympathies due to his speeches and writings upon returning to the US.

Growing Energy Concerns

Vietnam Weekly • 255 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Energy Aviation Vietnam Economic Implications
  1. Energy worries are mounting in Vietnam due to a possible electricity shortage from May through July.
  2. Vietnam is considering importing power from Laos and coal from neighboring countries to address energy challenges.
  3. Airlines in Vietnam are facing struggles with reduced routes, low demand, high airfares, and operational issues as the Lunar New Year approaches.

The Culture of Aviation Safety

Breaking the News • 397 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Aviation Safety Accidents Air Travel Investigations
  1. An analysis of aviation safety includes three new case studies, illustrating the complexity of keeping commercial aviation safe.
  2. A business jet in Naples, Florida had a tragic incident due to engine failures, sparking discussions in the aviation world on potential causes like the Idle-Cutoff possibility.
  3. A Pakistan International Airlines crash in Karachi revealed a chaotic situation in the cockpit, with the crew neglecting crucial flight protocols, ultimately leading to a disastrous outcome.

Photo of the Day

Photo of the Day • 176 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
💾 History Aviation World War I Heroes
  1. A team of aviators defied the odds by flying across the Atlantic from east to west in 1928
  2. They faced challenges like broken instruments and a blizzard during the 36-hour flight
  3. Despite not flying again, the crew of the Bremen were celebrated as aviation pioneers

Dingus of the week: Boeing

Men Yell at Me • 322 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
📰 News Politics Aviation Safety
  1. Boeing has faced safety concerns, including incidents of plane debris, fatal crashes, and whistleblower allegations, raising doubts about their safety practices.
  2. Boeing's significant revenue from government contracts raises questions about accountability and oversight in the aviation industry.
  3. The aviation industry's duopoly of Boeing and Airbus, self-regulation by Boeing, and underfunding of the FAA highlight systemic issues impacting airplane safety.

Boeing Reading List

Construction Physics • 208 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Aviation
  1. The aircraft industry has many enthusiasts interested in commercial aircraft aspects for fun.
  2. This post is for paid subscribers only.
  3. There are extremely accurate flight and air traffic control simulators available.

The F-111's Fatal Flaw

Military Aviation Videos • 39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 24
🔬 Science Aviation
  1. The F-111's delivery to the Royal Australian Air Force was delayed due to a fatal flaw in the wing pivot design.
  2. General Dynamics needed to address the issue before the F-111 could be safely utilized.
  3. Understanding and addressing design flaws in military aircraft is crucial for ensuring operational safety and effectiveness.

How much does aviation contribute to climate change? How will this change in the future?

Sustainability by numbers • 208 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Aviation Global Emissions Energy Efficiency Future Trends
  1. Aviation contributes around 3% of global emissions and is a challenging sector to decarbonize.
  2. Global passenger demand for flying has quadrupled since 1990.
  3. Future aviation emissions will depend on changes in demand, energy efficiency improvements, and adoption of low-carbon technologies.

Lost Over Dunkirk

Military Aviation Videos • 19 implied HN points • 28 Apr 24
💾 History Military Aviation WWII Propaganda
  1. The story recounts the heroic adventures of Spitfire Ace Gordon Olive, showcasing his skill and bravery during the Battle of Britain.
  2. Gordon Olive's recount of chasing and bringing down a Messerschmitt 111 with his Spitfire highlights the plane's effectiveness and the intensity of aerial combat during WWII.
  3. Despite facing dangerous situations, Olive's quick thinking and skill as a pilot allowed him to escape and continue fighting, showcasing the courage and resilience of military aviators.

The Ultimate Airman

The Radar • 59 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Leadership History Aviation Veterans
  1. Robin Olds is considered one of the most iconic figures in American combat aviation, embodying the spirit of airpower.
  2. Olds' insightful letter to Major Schwalier highlights systemic issues within the Air Force, like loss of authority and leadership diluted by bureaucracy.
  3. Olds' legacy reminds us that a combination of intellectual reflection and warrior spirit is essential in military leadership, and many of the Air Force's issues have persisted over time.

Short story of how the first flights were made possible

First principles trivia • 19 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
💾 History Inventions Aviation Entrepreneurship Technology Business
  1. The Wright brothers funded their aviation experiments largely out of their own pocket, showing dedication and perseverance.
  2. Despite receiving offers for funding, the Wright brothers chose to maintain full control over their research, emphasizing the importance of independence and vision.
  3. Through meticulous work, including building their own wind tunnel and conducting extensive test flights, the Wright brothers achieved their goal of creating a successful airplane, highlighting the value of thoroughness and persistence.

What's Happening With Boeing

The Radar • 19 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
💼 Business Aviation Corporate culture Government Relations
  1. The article discusses the issues surrounding Boeing, pointing out concerns with past crashes and design flaws in their aircrafts.
  2. The 'Five Whys' technique is highlighted as a method to dig deeper into the root causes of problems, exemplified in the analysis of Boeing's design and manufacturing practices.
  3. The strong influence of corporate culture, lack of competition, and government support are outlined as key factors contributing to Boeing's survival despite repeated failures.

16 Jan 2024 – Libyan Sands, germ warfare on the subway, and Boeing

Outsider Art • 19 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
💾 History Warfare Experiments Aviation
  1. The book 'Libyan Sands' by Ralph Bagnold paints a poetic picture of the Libyan Desert and mentions the skeletons of camels marking certain routes.
  2. A study conducted by the US Army in 1968 on the vulnerability of subway passengers in New York City to biological agents showed how pathogens could be disseminated widely without detection.
  3. An unsettling quote from 'White Noise' by Don DeLillo offers a glimpse into the fear and chaos within an aircraft's cockpit during a crisis.