Congrats to Alaska Airlines, for not joining the naysayers in shying away from the 737max. With all the scrutiny, this should be the safest airliner in the air.

(Written on 2020/11/24)(Permalink)

I was always amazed by this wonderful bird. It was really ahead of its' time but, like some many planes of that era, she was tied to a single mission of all out nuclear exchange. Like one of my line chiefs used to tell me, "The Stratofortress is much more capable than anything they try to replace her with. I always felt the B-1 Lancer would put the B-52 into the boneyard, yet she still flies in defense of our nation!

(Written on 2020/11/06)(Permalink)

The 707 aka "Stratojet" was quite the game-changer, especially considering the risk for the company. The 787 Dreamliner was a risk as well but seems to be paying off considering the savings in time and operating cost savings for airlines that have them. Regarding the 737MAX, I would have np qualms flying on one simply because it will be the most scrutinized airliner in the air. Don't forget naysayers, in the end you cannot depend on the automation for everything. You still have to fly the d***ed airplane!

(Written on 2020/10/27)(Permalink)

I suppose it must be a slow day since MH370 cannot resist more "Boeing bashing". Granted there are problems to be overcome with both the 737MAX and 787 but, nothin that is not insurmountable. I have yet to see the tail fall off of a Boeing jetliner like has off of an A300. Even the "Diesel-10" is still serving well as a cargo bird as well as one of the best USAF tankers.

(Written on 2020/09/16)(Permalink)

It used to be that I viewed Seattle as home to lumber, latte' LOONS, and Boeing. You cannot have anarchy in a region or city and not expect companies to sit idly by and do nothing. They have to have a safe as possible work environment for their employees. The region learned nothing after the riots at the WTO conference several years ago. I cannot fault Boeing for their decision. If they do consolidate, the only thing left could well be the latte' and LOONS!

(Written on 2020/08/24)(Permalink)

I flew on several of them when I was in the USAF. Mainly Alaska Airlines and Eastern. Never could understand how Eastern could brand it "Whisperjet". Those JT8Ds would get your attention at full power settings. All in all, she was a great ride, just could not deal with Stage 3 restrictions, without a hushkit or new gen engines. I am glad to see some still soldiering on as cargo birds, albeit with the aforementioned mods.

(Written on 2020/08/15)(Permalink)

I see that MH370 cannot resist continued "Boeing Bashing" with glee over this tragedy. Seems eerily similar to the Turkish Air crash over several years ago. Is there some unwritten rule among other countries airline pilots that says they cannot go around or divert to an alternate?

(Written on 2020/08/10)(Permalink)

While I have no problem wearing a mask, everyone will have to agree that prior to this "situation", many airliners were as dirty as a city bus, or a NYC taxicab. Don't even mention Gen Millenials putting their bare feet on the seatbacks or bulkheads. Airlines should have been taking a proactive policy of cleaning their planes long before now. It is a shame they cannot be as demanding that passengers practice good hygiene and, a little courtesy without risking a lawsuit.

(Written on 2020/07/31)(Permalink)

Too bad Bill Lear is not alive to add his perspective on this whole situation. He would definitely have some colorful comments!

(Written on 2020/07/22)(Permalink)

Great news for Boeing, and the airlines. SAD news for MH370. LOL!

(Written on 2020/06/27)(Permalink)