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If you find yourself in the position of having to move your office across the country, one of the most stressful aspects is figuring out how to pack expensive items. You may have a marvelous opportunity waiting for you on the opposite coast but arriving with boxes of broken equipment can be a real setback. Consider carefully how to move your cargo safely. Packing Products The first place to start with a big move is with the correct packing products. Standard cardboard boxes may seem like an obvious choice, but cardboard can sag, collapse and come apart at the corners if over or incorrectly packed. Corrugated cartons are sturdier than regular boxes and contain an internal ribbed liner. Wooden crates hold together well but are more expensive. It will definitely be worth it to use a higher-end packing method as insurance for pricy equipment. Shipping pallets are a great way to stabilize fragile items. Boxes can be strapped to the base which allows less contact with individual pieces. Shrink wrapping items protects them from getting scratched or broken as well as any natural elements like sun and rain. There are several different types of fillers available depending on what you’re packing. Air pillows and bubble wrap are both great at keeping items cushioned and away from the vulnerable sides of the boxes. Packing peanuts work well also, but they do create a mess when unpacking. Water-activated tape is the best at keeping boxes sealed. Electronics Electronics are tough to pack because they are heavy, awkward and delicate. The first thing to do is to take off all the extra cords and pieces and bag them together. If possible, put them in the same box as the main equipment. Most people and businesses do not have room to keep all the original packing their electronic equipment came in, but for air shipping, you’ll want to find a container big enough to pad adequately. Be sure to use UDI labeling for medical equipment and to note that the items are fragile. Furniture From desks to filing cabinets and from chairs to bookshelves, furniture packing is a pain. If possible, disassemble any legs or arms and attach them to the body of the furniture. Put all screws into a baggie and tape to the bottom or inside of what you’re moving. Wrap each piece carefully with blankets paying particular attention to corners that can get knocked easily. Use shipping-grade stretch wrap around each piece. Before you do any of this, check the furniture prices at your destination. It may be cheaper and less hassle to just buy new furniture once you arrive. Lamps Lamps are particularly tricky to move because no part ever seems to fit easily into a box. It seems silly that a single lamp shade gets an entire box to itself, but unless you want to replace a torn or bent shade, that’s what needs to happen. Make sure the bottom and top of the box are lined with towels or bubble wrap and that the shade itself is suspended safely in the middle. Wash your hands before packing the shades or you may end up with smudges you must clean off before you can reattach them. For floor lamps, your best bet is to use a box specially designed to protect that piece of furniture. Pictures If you feel strongly that the art on your wall creates a certain atmosphere at your office, then by all means, take your pictures with you. Cover the glass with a piece of foam and then wrap the entire picture twice with bubble wrap. Put the pictures upright in a corrugated box after padding the bottom. Put a row of air pillows between each frame so they don’t rub against each other on the plane. Make sure there is no extra room at the top of the box and seal the entire thing with water-activated tape. In summary, it is difficult to move items through the air, but with the right techniques, you will be able to make it there in one piece.

Airports serve 2.7 million people every day, and fighting passengers rushing through airports can be overwhelming. However, if you haven’t been in an airport in a few years, you may be surprised by the modern updates and new technologies you will find. Therapy Dog Programs Although it is not a technological upgrade, several airports, including the Denver International Airport and Tulsa International Airport, have begun having domesticated animals, such as cats and dogs, walk through terminals and concourses. The purpose of these therapy animals is to ease customers’ anxieties. They just roam airports wearing “pet me†vests or other therapy designation clothing and visit with passengers. Alternative Energy Solar energy is not new technology, but more and more people have searched for solar companies near me to gauge prices, estimate their energy savings and evaluate the efficiency levels of this technology. Alternate energy has been adopted in a number of industries, and up to 20% of airports have adopted some form of solar power, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, which use semiconductors to convert light into electricity, reducing the use of fossil fuels to power airports. Robotics Today, 40% of airlines are testing robotics technology, and more than 65% of airports are investigating robotics implementation within the next few years. For example, some airport staff may look different than in the past because robots have started performing many repetitive tasks, such as handling your check-in and security processes. Even concierge services have adopted robotics technologies. Automated vehicles have also been tested in several airports. Even concourse cleaning has become somewhat automated. The Dusseldorf Airport uses valet robots to pick up and move cars into their reserved parking places. Several airports, including the Amsterdam Airport Schinphol, have robotic baggage loading and unloading. Although most people prefer working with a person, airports are looking to expand automated technologies for their more mundane tasks. Artificial Intelligence Several airports have implemented technology that updates passengers on their security wait time. Missing flights due to long lines at security causes incredible stress on passengers. Knowing the amount of time they have to wait before getting through security can relieve much of this stress, as well as the impatience they feel toward other passengers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) sets up checkpoints that post wait times. Because security wait times can be accessed through airport websites or mobile applications, airport customers can determine how early they need to get to the airport long before they leave home, and at the airport, they will know if they have time to grab a drink or book before their flights. AI is also used to provide personalized retail promotions in airports. In addition, Delta airlines even uses biometrics in some US airports to streamline the check-in process. You may encounter bag drop off stations and automated technologies that check your passport, direct your boarding process and even guide you through customs. These systems connect your smart device and the airport, including some of its robotics assets, to improve your passenger experience from check in to boarding. Big Data Analytics Airports are using big data analytics to eliminate bottlenecks and improve efficiencies. Big data can be used to identify areas in the passenger process that need additional staffing, such as security during times with high passenger volumes. Airlines and airports also learn more about their passengers by tracking and analyzing their data. For example, these organizations collect passenger genders, baggage check-in or carry-on habits, how early they arrive at the airport before a flight and passenger frustrations and complaints. This data is used to provide better passenger experiences and improve the efficiency of the airport. The increasing digitization and use of AI and robotics throughout airports increase the amount and types of data collected for analysis. Airports are increasingly adopting “smart†technologies in an attempt to improve their efficiencies and reduce their costs while providing exceptional customer service. Progress has been slow, especially with regard to upgrading archaic airport facilities and outdated processes and procedures. However, don’t be surprised to find new technologies during your next airport visit.

The automotive industry has long been dependent on the tech and industry sectors for improvements and sustainability, but the introduction of self-driving cars and electric models shows just how far the industry will be completely revolutionized by new tech advancements. The world has been adjusting to the digitization of many sectors, and the automotive industry is no stranger to these transformations. New tech has advanced automotive into a new age, where users enjoy a more innovative experience and manufacturers enjoy higher revenues. Here are some things to expect as tech transforms the industry. The Digital Buying Experience The 2020 pandemic changed the way many businesses reached consumers and addressed daily operations. The automotive industry spent time working on the digital landscape, though consumers have not had the most favorable reaction to buying a new vehicle completely online. However, the makers and sellers aren’t going to give up. There is an interest in making the buying experience as seamless as possible, all the way from giving consumers a virtual tour of the automobile to filling out the paperwork for an auto loan through digital connections. It will be quite an adjustment for consumers and staff alike, and car dealers may have a problem with employee retention. Consumers are also more reticent to commit to a completely digital experience for such a large purchase. Dealerships are introducing more tech into current showroom setups, with interactive screens and VR simulations in certain car models. If the industry is able to successfully make the conversion to a digital buying experience, makers and dealers will be able to reach more consumers more quickly but with lower expenses. The Improved Connectivity Between Owner and Support Resources Vehicles owners will benefit from increased connectivity regarding their vehicle maintenance, insurance and registration. With digital records and improved connectivity between Internet of Things devices, owners don’t have to worry about when their next oil change should take place or how to file an insurance claim. Many of the paperwork processes associated with registering a car, purchasing insurance or scheduling maintenance will be digitized, and central access to vehicle-specific information streamlines the owner’s responsibilities. The Eco-Friendly Movement Though vehicles have transformed the way people and products get from one location to another, a negative side effect has been the increase in carbon dioxide emissions. In addition to the significant reliance on limited fossil fuels, increased emissions lead to environmental damage. Thanks to electric cars, the demand for limited resources is reduced and harmful emissions are minimized. Battery power gives these cars a clean energy source, and many manufacturers are pursuing more eco-friendly models. However, the consumers struggle with the price-point and the limited infrastructure of charging ports. The Faster Model Release Cycle Typically, a new model was released up to a decade after the original came off the manufacturing line. However, as new tech changes the efficiency of both production processes and the function of the automobile, model releases can come in as little as one to two years. As consumers buy into the upgrades and see the benefits of a newer model, the automotive company sees greater revenue. Niche or demographic-specific models are a consumer-centric approach that can deliver the best profit, yet it could have an adverse effect on a company’s research and development costs. The Release of More Autonomous Vehicles Artificial intelligence has been a key factor in many of the developments over the last decade, and its current areas of exploration are in autonomous vehicles. Though it has been used for predictive maintenance and improved intuitive safety adjustments, AI is being tapped for self-driving vehicle development. Rather than using a human driver, these cars and trucks rely on both software and sensors to navigate the roadway. Machine-learning is a factor in the success of these advancements, yet ethical and safety concerns are keeping the tech from becoming more integrated with key automotive manufacturers. Tesla has been an advocate for driverless cars and has a plan to release 10,000 robo-taxis by the end of 2021. Ridesharing services like Uber have also experimented with autonomous car services. As more companies take part in the change and more applications are created to ensure safety, the autonomous vehicle sector will be worth close to $560 million by the year 2026. There is a lot on the horizon for the automotive industry, particularly in areas of tech influence. The overall goal is a safer, more efficient mode of transportation where consumers and manufacturers reap the benefits.

Fear of flying is common among travelers, perhaps more so today than ever before due to the pandemic. Yet, air travel is statistically the safest mode of transportation and continues to be a great option for getting to where you need to go. Coronavirus has complicated life in many ways, but it doesn't need to derail all your travel plans. By taking a few precautions, you can ensure all of your flights are safe and comfortable. Understand the Airline Industry's Role Some aspects of air travel are obviously outside of your control. But you can rest assured that the airlines follow strict maintenance protocols performed by meticulously trained personnel. In fact, airline maintenance is highly regulated under international standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Another area of concern for many travelers is the harm that carbon emissions can cause to the environment. The ICAO has adopted recommended practices aimed at capping the international aviation industry's net carbon emissions at the 2020 level, preventing any further increase by offsetting them. The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, or CORSIA as it is more commonly known, is a historic agreement that will help ensure that air travel is safe not only for travelers but also for planet earth. Do Your Research Before You Go Before you book your flight, visit the airline's website to get the latest updates on their boarding and seating policies. Some carriers are leaving middle seats or sometimes entire rows empty, while others are boarding passengers from back to front to minimize close contact. For maximum social distancing, try to book a window seat. Also, consider booking multiple shorter flights rather than a nonstop one. While it may be slightly less convenient, it will lessen your exposure time to any infectious passengers on a particular flight. Shorter flights also decrease the likelihood that you'll need to use the aircraft bathroom and make it easier to keep your mask on since you'll have less need to eat or drink inflight. Move Safely Through the Airport Safe flights begin at the airport. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued safety guidelines for travelers with updated factsheets and other helpful information. Some tips include wearing a face mask at all times in the airport, washing your hands frequently, and utilizing the free hand sanitizer stations located in every major airport in the United States. Keep in mind that many airports have closed most of their security checkpoints as well as restaurants and other amenities, so research what's open before you head out in order to minimize delays and inconvenience. Keep Your Guard Up Onboard Once onboard, use hand wipes to disinfect your seatbelt, tray table, armrest, and belongings touched by others, such as your passport. Stay in your seat as much as possible and keep your mask on. You might consider wearing two masks, as some health experts now recommend for extra protection. If possible, refrain from eating or drinking during the flight as it's safer to do so once you can socially distance on arrival at your destination. Anytime you fly, you should pack a travel health kit and keep it with you in your carry-on bag. Be sure to include any prescription medications you take as well as over-the-counter medicines like antacids, ibuprofen, and cough drops. You should also bring a supply of hand sanitizer; the Transportation Security Administration has made this easier by modifying the liquids rule to allow one 12-ounce bottle of hand sanitizer per passenger. Save room for some disposable gloves, antiseptic, and bandages as well. The comfort and ease of traveling by air allow you to explore the world in ways that no other mode of transportation can offer. The airline industry has a stellar reputation for maintaining safe aircraft. Guarding your own personal safety on flights is an important responsibility but one you can easily meet by planning ahead and taking a few commonsense precautions.

Interested in a career in the airline industry? If you're like most people, your first thoughts were probably becoming a pilot or a flight attendant. But did you know there are a slew of fascinating job opportunities beyond the obvious ones? Take a look at some of them, and you'll realize that the sky's the limit when it comes to making your livelihood in aviation. Keeping It All Operating Smoothly Are you friendly, persuasive, and calm under pressure? If so, you might be perfectly suited to work as a sales representative for an airline. This critical role brings business and financial success to their employer while providing professional service to customers. If you've never considered this type of career, take a look at a sales operations job description to see if you can imagine yourself working in this fast-paced and rewarding field. If you like the idea of helping an airline run smoothly but would prefer to work behind-the-scenes rather than directly with customers, take a look at one of the many administrative jobs such as mail clerks, administrative assistants, and data entry operators. These positions may not be in the public spotlight, but they are essential for the airline's smooth and safe operation. Getting Everything Onboard Securely If the idea of working a sedentary job in an office setting makes you cringe, consider a career in ground operations. These labor-intensive positions often involve loading and unloading baggage and other cargo as well as cleaning and deicing the aircraft. The physical nature of these jobs means you'll likely get a physical workout while ensuring the plane is properly loaded and prepared for flight. The use of specialized equipment like forklifts, as well as time spent outdoors in all types of weather, means you'll have to be mentally and physically prepared for each shift. Guiding Aircraft Through Flight Safely Did you know that airlines rely on highly trained aviation meteorologists to interpret critical weather conditions such as cloud cover, precipitation, and expected turbulence? This challenging career carries a huge amount of responsibility. Still, it can be gratifying for those who love analyzing weather data and transforming it into informative and vitally important reports to keep pilots up-to-date on the latest conditions. Another aviation career well-suited to those with a detail-oriented, scientific mind is that of a flight dispatcher. Often, this key team member rides along in the cockpit with the flight crew but sometimes is based on a control center on the ground. Either way, this navigator prepares the flight plan and monitors all data in order to resolve any unexpected problems that arise quickly. Engineering Improvements Creatively Some jobs in the aviation industry don't take place anywhere near the airport. If you have experience in software engineering, you could put your expertise to work by developing flight-training devices FTD) to help pilots of airplanes and helicopters keep their skills sharp. Advances in technology mean that FTD are becoming increasingly lifelike and effective in simulating the look and feel of flight. A wide variety of engineers are needed to keep the airline industry aloft, including those specializing in systems, mechanics, and of course, avionics. Efforts are continuously underway to make aircraft more energy-efficient and cheaper to operate, and engineers of all types contribute to these important projects. Looking To the Future Strategically If you're concerned about how the pandemic has affected the aviation industry and what lies ahead, do some research on what air travel experts predict the next trends will be, which can help frame your thinking as you consider your own future. There are literally hundreds of different types of jobs related to the aviation industry. No matter your current experience or skill set, you're likely to find a position that matches, from entry-level to highly specialized. And, because there are so many opportunities within this dynamic field, you'll have plenty of options to choose from as you build your aviation career.

It has been said that there are few experiences like travel. If your life feels like it is stuck in a rut and your brain requires a bit of new stimulation, then packing your bags and exploring places far and unfamiliar can help immensely. Of course, it is not as simple as hopping a plane and jetting to parts unknown. If you are going to have a successful experience while taking a trip, you need to put a good amount of thought into the items you pack for your journey. Forgetting an essential is an easy way to feel annoyed during the first stage of your trip. Avoid this and give yourself some peace of mind by reviewing these points you absolutely need to consider before you go anywhere. Money Management Most people know that they will need to take certain financial considerations to heart when traveling internationally. First and foremost, currency must be exchanged in order for a person entering a foreign country to have access to actual money. Beyond this, however, there are a handful of steps to keep in mind. Some people decide to use cash, while others opt to go the digital route and only use cards. No matter how you plan to pay while away, you need to keep your funds safe from those looking for a quick buck. Theft is a huge cause for concern for anyone entering territory unfamiliar. Even if you travel somewhere you speak the native language, you need to always have a plan in place for protecting yourself and your possessions. A secure wallet, for example, is absolutely necessary for those planning to travel. This is also true of any documents like your passport you must carry with you while traveling. Not only should the items you purchase be small, they must offer extra protection from those looking to slip into your pockets. Appropriate Tech Accessories Another huge area to pay attention to when packing is your tech. Whether you’re only bringing your phone or you plan on lugging along all manner of laptops and tablets, you likely won’t be able to use the same chargers you do back home. This is largely due to the fact that almost every country has a different approach to electricity and how it is accessed. Before departing, research the kind of outlets available in the country you are visiting and make sure you have a compatible charger for your journey. You may also want to think ahead about data and calls. Your standard plan doesn’t typically include international travel and if it does it is quite expensive. Everyone tends to use different amounts of data when abroad, so you may need to do a little research to understand how to go about allotting enough funds for data and calls. Understanding your data center infrastructure management, or DCIM, can help you get a better feel for how your data is used when you access various parts of your phone. Sanitation and Hygiene Considerations When you travel away from home, you are introducing your body to an array of foreign irritants and substances. Even water can pose a threat in some senses, as filtration standards vary from nation to nation. If you’re not used to what you consume, it can land you in the bathroom for the rest of the trip. In addition to being wise with water and meals, be sure to bring along hand sanitizer. Keeping your hands clean at all times is key to your health, so be sure to take the sensible approach with washing and sanitizing. Though traveling to new and exciting locations might be appealing, you can’t rush out the door without first checking your bags. There are all kinds of essential items that you need to bring with you in order to have the best possible experience. Create a checklist, run through the items a few times, and feel confident that you’ve got everything you need for a successful excursion.

Flying planes for a living comes with a certain amount of risks along with the many rewards. Not only does the job itself come with some possibility of danger, but there are health concerns that could creep up on you after years of sitting for a job. This article will help you identify some of those risks and come up with ways to prevent issues before they arise. 1. Stay Hydrated The importance of hydration to health can often seem overstated, but neglecting to hydrate properly can have severe implications for your overall health. Smaller issues like indigestion or constipation can easily happen if you're poorly hydrated while traveling, and dehydration can cause severe paranoia and anxiety in its later stages. The altitudes reached during flights can make dehydration a bigger possibility, so it's important that you're hydrated in proportion to the flight you're taking. Staying hydrated, eating a good diet, and taking supplements that can enhance gut health, like Gundry Prebiothrive reviews, can improve your performance as a pilot enormously. 2. Get Circulating One of the biggest risks of extended periods of sitting still is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Pilots are at a particular risk for this issue because their job frequently prevents them from getting up and taking breaks from their seated position during long flights. But it's important to put your health first and make sure you get up to walk the aisles every two to three hours. If you're flying a smaller plane, you can also get your circulation flowing by flexing and unflexing your feet and doing seated stretches. To identify DVT in its early stages, it's important to get regular checkups by your doctor and let them know any symptoms you might be experiencing, such as swelling or redness in your extremities and chest pain. This is especially important if you have a family history of blood clots, as the issue can be hereditary. Try to move around during your flights and don't ignore symptoms hoping they'll go away. 3. Pack Warm Clothes There are emergency situations every pilot is trained to prepare for, but frequently the importance of packing warm layers is overlooked. The possibility of hypothermia when flying in cold or freezing weather is very real, and should be prepared for if those are conditions you'll be finding yourself in. Pack clothing made of fibers such as wool, or something synthetic, rather than breathable and easily waterlogged materials like cotton or denim. It's also important to understand the signs of hypothermia, both for yourself and your crew or passengers. Look for severe shaking or shivering and rapid breathing, along with elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Identifying the signs quickly will make sure you can get yourself or the person experiencing symptoms the warm clothes they need to prevent further symptoms from arising. 4. Find Ways to De-stress While the lifestyle of a pilot can often seem glamorous and jet-setting, it's important to realize the pressure that you're under in your day to day life. The lives of your crew and passengers are in your hands, and this kind of responsibility can have a real impact on mental health over time. It's important to have effective stress management strategies in place. Something as simple as getting eight hours of sleep at night can do wonders for managing stress. In general, it's best to have a health routine outside of your job that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet, which will prevent the snowballing of health problems as a result of stress. You may feel like once you've left the cockpit, your responsibilities have ended. But you still have a responsibility to yourself to stay healthy and prepared for the next flight. Being a good pilot doesn't just mean being good at flying planes. It also means being aware of the possibilities during flight, and being physically and mentally prepared to handle anything that could happen.

Traveling by air can be exhausting, especially if you're flying across several time zones To combat fatigue, it's wise to dress comfortably and get up and move during your flight. Airline pilots, unfortunately, can't take the same liberty as passengers. You rarely see a pilot during a flight because they remain inside a tiny cockpit for what can be hours on end. Because of this, pilots are more apt to experience burnout as well as one of the following six health issues. Poor Diet Habits Airline food is fine for one flight, but can you imagine eating it every day? Pilots and other flight crew don't always have access to nutritious food. In addition, fast food offerings at airports can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure and diabetes. To avoid illness, pilots need to search for healthier options on the job such as salads, fruits and yogurt. They can also benefit from using a wellness program like the Thrive experience which can be taken anywhere. Deep Vein Thrombosis If you're a frequent flyer, you're familiar with deep vein thrombosis. This is when a blood clot forms, usually in the lower leg, where it causes pain and swelling. It can occur because of obesity, smoking and as a result of sitting for long periods of time like pilots do. To avoid deep leg thrombosis, it's important for pilots to stretch their legs at least once per hour. In many cases, the use of compression stockings is helpful. Sleep Pattern Disruption Jet lag is a common occurrence when you fly to another continent. For those working in aviation, it's not uncommon to see sleep deprivation followed by insomnia during time off. These conditions are a result of an interruption of the circadian rhythm and lead to extreme fatigue. Pilots can attempt to manage sleep problems by making sure their bedroom is dark and kept at a cooler temperature. They should also avoid caffeine before bedtime. High Stress Levels Being an airline pilot means dealing with a tremendous amount of stress. Pilots contend with irregular schedules, cancellations and diverted flights. On top of that, they're also responsible for everyone on board. Stress can creep in at any moment, while on the job or on down time. It's crucial for pilots to understand how to deal with in-flight stress and anticipate problems before they happen. Maintaining open lines of communication with crew greatly reduces tension. Skin Cancer If you've ever flown, you know it's always sunny above the clouds. Pilots are often hit squarely in the face with dangerous ultraviolet rays. Since they're flying at high elevations, that also means these rays are unfiltered, increasing their risk for skin cancer. When a pilot flies on routes that are close to the equator, their exposure is compounded. Sunscreen should be used every day and reapplied often. Pilots need to be vigilant of spots or moles and see a doctor immediately if something appears. Sinus Problems For those that have experienced a sinus infection, they know how painful it can be. One of the precursors to sinus maladies is dry air, something that's abundant on airplanes. Throw in frequent changes in pressure and you've got the perfect recipe for a sinus infection. Pilots that are susceptible to sinus problems should also avoid touching their face and use hand sanitizer to avoid germs. Drinking plenty of water prevents dehydration and sinus rinses are also effective in avoiding illness. Potential Health Risks Can Be Avoided Airline pilots have one of the most admired and respected jobs in the world. However, there are potential health risks that come along with the territory. Problems such as poor diet, sleep disruptions and stress can make a pilot's life miserable if they're not properly dealt with. By seeking appropriate outlets such as a wellness program, improving sleep and maintaining good communication on the job, the exciting reputation of an airline pilot will fly far beyond expectations.

Airplanes are ubiquitous in modern life, making long-distance travel relatively cheap and widely available. Flying is now a luxury that many can afford, allowing quick travel across the country or even around the world. Believe it or not, humanity just started flying in the early 1900s. How far we've come over the past century! The airplane is a bit of a mechanical marvel. Let's consider some of the key parts of modern aircraft. Navigation Airplanes are typically equipped with multiple GPS units, similar to GPS for commercial vehicles like trucks. The GPS units indicate the plane's position relative to a map, facilitating travel from one city to another. Planes are also equipped with various gyroscopes that indicate the speed at which the aircraft is traveling. Such information is used to predict flight arrival times. Airplanes additionally utilize altimeters to measure the altitude at which the vehicle is operating. Pilots use this information to position the aircraft above clouds and any inclement weather. Altitude information is critical for landing the airplane as well. Planes also have several radios on board, allowing pilots to communicate with ground radio towers to help navigate the aircraft. Propulsion One of the most noticeable aspects of a modern airplane is the propulsion system. Planes are quite loud. Indeed, bystanders can hear an airplane landing from significant distance away. Planes move quickly as well. The speed of planes is part of how flying is possible, and, quite simply, one of the main reasons that they are prized for travel. Both the noise and the speed of airplanes are a testament to the power of the propulsion system. There are actually several components of the propulsion system. The most prominent features are the large turbofan engines typically located on the underside of the wings. These massive engines provide the main thrust used to propel the aircraft. These engines are so large, however, that a smaller engine, called an auxiliary power unit (APU), must be utilized to kick-start the large turbofans. All of these engines require fuel of course to operate. Fuel is stored in a tank in the main body of the plane as well as two additional fuel tanks cleverly positioned in the wings. The fuel is moved to the engines via electronic pumps. These pumps control the amount of fuel flowing to each engine. Additionally, there are redundant fuel lines and fuel pumps so that fuel can still be transferred to the engines in the event that one of the fuel pumps or lines fails during a flight. Aerodynamics Airplanes are typically fabricated from light weight but strong materials like aluminum. The material is constructed into shapes that are aerodynamic, manipulating air to flow in advantageous ways around the craft at high speeds. These features are often taken for granted and go unnoticed, but they are extremely important for flying. The cross-section of the wings, for example, are shaped such that air passes more quickly over the top of the wing than over the bottom of the wing. The fast-moving air creates an area of lower pressure above the wing, while the relatively slow-moving air underneath the wing creates an area of higher pressure. The area of high pressure below the wing wants to move toward the area of low pressure above the wing to maintain equilibrium, creating a force pushing up on the underside of the wing. In effect, the shape of the wing creates a pressure differential that leads to the force of lift, allowing the aircraft to fly. The contours of the rest of the aircraft are constructed such that air passes over them with little resistance. These shapes reduce drag force and improve the fuel efficiency of flying. Flaps on the wings and tail of the plane can be used to deliberately disrupt the air flow patterns, allowing pilots to ascend, descend, or even slow the aircraft down during landing. Airplanes are an impressive engineering accomplishment. They allow humanity to remain connected even over long distances. Having learned a little bit about how planes work, hopefully they can be further appreciated.

Being an airline pilot is a potentially lucrative career, and it also allows pilots to see more of the world, if only in passing. It stands to reason, then, that many people would be interested in this line of work. However, pursuing this career path requires extensive training, first and foremost, as well as tending to other concerns. For example, a major responsibility for pilots is staving off exhaustion and staying alert. Here’s what you need to know about staying awake and alert on the job when flying a plane. Staying Alert Anyone who’s driven a car or studied to do so is most likely familiar with the phenomenon of highway hypnosis. Effectively, a long drive can make you sleepy and less alert, potentially ending with a total, albeit brief, loss of consciousness. The same principle applies to flying. It’s also potentially a greater problem when flying an aircraft thousands of feet in the air, and it’s ultimately far easier to fall victim to this phenomenon during a flight. This is because the origin of this problem is the monotony of driving, and skies are even less visually stimulating than roads. Staying alert is both a priority and a challenge, so you’ll need to prepare for this. Getting Energy From Your Diet One of the most fundamental ways to raise your energy level is with your diet. First and foremost, carbs give you energy. However, not all carbs are created equal. Simple carbs are absorbed quickly, giving your body a quick burst of energy, typically followed by a crash. Complex carbs, on the other hand, take longer to digest and absorb, giving you more time to burn that energy. On the other hand, dietary supplements can help you get more energy by giving you unbridled access to the vitamins and nutrients you need to stay energized. However, you should do some research into Thrive side effects, for example, in order to make sure the supplement will work as intended and not blindside you with unexpected downsides. Sleeping Properly Unsurprisingly, sleep plays a major role in your energy levels. What is surprising, however, is the requirements for effective sleep. While everyone is at least tangentially familiar with the idea that you need 8 hours of sleep each night, this is far from the whole story. First of all, 8 hours is not a hard and fast rule, and the official figure is actually anywhere from 7 to 9 hours. Furthermore, the amount of sleep can vary from person to person. In addition to sleeping for a sufficient amount of time, it’s important to go to sleep at the same time of day each night and, likewise, wake up at the same time each day. This doesn’t have to be exact, but your body and brain need approximately 8 hours of sleep, followed by 16 hours of wakefulness, totaling 24 hours. Without a full day in between waking and sleeping, you’ll find yourself restlessly trying to fall asleep, and that restlessness will carry over into your sleep and even your dreams. This can negatively impact the quality of rest you get during the night, leading to sleepiness and grogginess the following day. Consistency is crucial. Another surprising aspect of getting a good night’s sleep is that exercise is also important for a sound, restorative sleep. In addition to this, exercise can energize you in the short term, making a quick jog a great pick me up. Getting plenty of sleep on a consistent schedule and getting plenty of exercise are crucial for staying alert during the day, especially when working against highway hypnosis. Airline pilots get to experience something fairly unique, and they get to travel for work. While this sounds like a dream come true, it’s not without its downsides. Piloting an aircraft is complicated and requires a ton of training, and even then, it’s difficult to avoid sleepiness looking at endless skies. With these tips in mind, you can stay energized for long flights.

The first successful flight of a gas-powered, propeller-driven biplane was accomplished by Orville and Wilbur Wright in 1903. That plane can still be seen at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. Many other engineers had tried their hands at flying, but the Wright brother's plane was different because it was heavier than air and able to be steered. These features set it apart from previous flying apparatus, like gliders. In order for the Wright brothers to get their plane off the ground, they had to first solve multiple problems. Each problem needed a revolutionary solution. This led them to create techniques and equipment that have advanced physics and aerodynamics just as much as the plane that made them famous. Wind Tunnel The Wright brothers needed a way to study how different wing materials and shapes were affected by forces, like air. They calculated the equations but needed a way to test their accuracy. So in October of 1901, the Wright brothers built a wind tunnel. Wind tunnels had previously been used by engineers, but the instruments the brothers designed and built to measure lift and drag made it special. They were able to study how forces like lift, balance and drag affect an object. These principles led to discoveries in fluid dynamic scale and aerodynamics. The wind tunnel they used, and the equations they were able to test, were instrumental in designing the plane that flew on the beach at Kitty Hawk in 1903. It is amazing to think of all the knowledge they obtained from such a simple piece of equipment. The tunnel was a simple wooden box elevated by four legs and about seven feet long. The top of the box had a clear window for them to observe the forces acting on their test objects. On one end of the box, they hooked a fan belt to an engine with one horsepower. This produced 30 mph wind inside the tunnel. They tested between 100 and 200 models with different techniques and observed all of the design variables. If it wasn't for this important work, the brothers would probably not have made that historic flight in 1903. Steering System By 1901, many other people were trying to accomplish flight. The Wright Brothers never claimed to be the first to fly, but they were the first to effectively maneuver while in flight. Using their wind tunnel, they designed a control system for aircraft and the techniques to navigate it. Without the ability to navigate, any hope of safe flight is lost. Planes would lose any practical purpose like transportation of people and goods. When beginning to explore how to maneuver in the sky, the brothers first looked to the water. They observed that forces working on a boat in the ocean are similar to the forces working on an object flying in the sky. In the water, a wave could cause the boat to rock from side to side or roll. If the wave came from behind, then the boat would pitch forward and backward. Currents could also force the boat to spin in place or yaw right and left. By studying how boats control roll, pitch and yaw, the Wright brothers were able to design methods to control how a plane moves in the sky. Engine The Wright brothers designed a 12 horsepower combustion engine to fly their plane. This engine was different than other engines in two ways. First, they used an aluminum crankcase. This was the first time aluminum was used for aircraft and is now a staple in airplane manufacturing. The material is ideal because it is light, strong and resistant to corrosion. The engine was also unique because it didn't have a carburetor, fuel pump or spark plugs. Instead, they used gravity, natural airflow and heat to keep the engine running. To get it started, the spark was produced using two batteries and a coil on the ground. With limited supplies and no formal education, Orville and Wilbur Wright systematically tackled every obstacle they faced. Each solution they discovered has been used and furthered by the inventors after them. Their many innovations cemented their place in history as true visionaries.

One of the most well-respected and admired careers is that of an airline pilot. Pilots live an exciting life jet-setting all over the world at a moment's notice. However, this thrilling job is not without its share of health-related challenges. Being confined to a small cockpit for hours at a time can be tedious, but these professionals have figured out how to make it work. Here are six things that airline pilots do to stay healthy on long flights. Stretch Their Legs The last thing you want to do on a long flight is to remain seated the entire time. Although pilots work in cramped quarters, they find time to stretch out and walk around. They know they're at risk for deep vein thrombosis which is when a blood clot forms in the lower leg. This can be caused by obesity, smoking or sitting for long periods. Pilots usually try to stretch their legs at least every hour and in some cases, they use compression socks. Take Nutritional Supplements Although airline food is a tasty treat for weary travelers, pilots know they can't survive on it long-term. Many have started packing healthy snacks, or are part of the Thrive experience which includes energy-boosting supplements that can be taken anywhere. Others will hunt down the most nutritious offerings at airports during layovers. By passing up fast food, pilots can choose smarter options like salad, fruit and yogurt for a balanced meal. Maintain Healthy Communication Being an airline pilot is a stressful job when you consider long and unpredictable shifts, dealing with weather and being responsible for everyone on board. Stress can manifest itself at any time while on the job or during time off. To avoid such tension, pilots understand that it's critical to maintain positive communication with other crew members so everyone's on the same page. This helps solve any potential problems before they can occur. Manage Sleep Time Pilots are no stranger to jetlag and fortunately, they know exactly how to deal with it. When an airline pilot is pulling an all-nighter, he or she knows exactly what to expect and how to use caffeine effectively. On their days off, they make the most out of sleep time by avoiding that same caffeine and keeping their bedroom comfortable enough to avoid bouts of insomnia. Since sleep deprivation and crossing several time zones causes intense fatigue, pilots are experts at knowing how to catch those forty winks. Wear Sunblock One surprising danger of flying is the risk of skin cancer. Since pilots have the best view in the house, they often get pelted in the face with sunlight. Above the clouds, the sun's dangerous rays are unfiltered. The closer they are to the equator makes the problem even worse. To stay safe, pilots know they need to use sunscreen every day and reapply throughout their shift. Any appearance of spots or moles should be reported to a doctor immediately. Stay Hydrated Everyone could take a lesson from pilots when it comes to hydration. The air inside a plane is so dry that pilots and crew are especially susceptible to sinus infections. Sinus problems are painful and when you add in changes in pressure, the situation can be unbearable. One of the best ways to keep sinuses clear is to drink plenty of liquid whether it's water, a diet soda or tea. Another solution pilots might use is a nasal spray or rinse. Enjoy Their Job Although pilots have one of the most glamorous careers around, there are certainly plenty of health risks associated with the job. Luckily pilots are well-aware of how to contend with these situations. They avoid dangerous blood clots, have mastered the art of eating well when traveling and are experts at manipulating sleep time to work in their favor. In other words, airline pilots have all sorts of ways to stay healthy and enjoy one of the most interesting jobs in the world.

Flight was once thought to be impossible, but it’s now so commonplace that the biggest factors stopping humans from soaring through the sky are either economic or motivated by a fear of flying. While flying in a plane is safer on average than driving a car, the irrational fear of flying holds a lot of people back in terms of their travel options. However, airlines aren’t blind to these problems, and they’ve taken many steps to help passengers feel at ease thousands of feet in the air. Here’s what you need to know. Entertainment Thanks to endless depictions in movies and TV shows, it’s safe to assume that even people who have never stepped foot on an airplane are aware of the promise of in-flight movies. In-flight entertainment makes sense for a form of transportation that can take upwards of 12 hours and offer little freedom of movement. However, this entertainment is more than a way to make the time spent stationary more bearable. Distraction is a potent treatment for anxieties of all sorts, irrational fears included. Focusing on something, anything else helps immensely. Furthermore, MSNBC live streaming or the latest blockbuster are pretty overt and demanding of attention, making it the easier choice when compared to reading a book. Rather than being solely responsible for manifesting reading material via theater of the mine, you can simply tune into the in-flight entertainment and let it surround you with sensations. Concessions Again, food and drink aboard an airplane serve a fairly self-explanatory purpose. Throughout the course of half a day or more, you’re going to need sustenance. While you could simply do without for up to 3 days without water or two full weeks without food, especially when confined to a resting position, it’s not going to be pleasant. However, these concessions, in addition to alcoholic beverages, serve as another way to put passengers at ease. It’s hard to deny the power of a good meal when it comes to putting your mind at ease. While the idea of eating while enduring the fear of flying may not seem like a good idea, it all boils down to a simple math equation. If there’s a threat to your gastrointestinal fortitude when flying a plane, it’s more likely to be stress than the flight itself, and having a nice meal can potentially abate the possibility of the former without contributing to the latter. Alcohol in particular is a great way for the more anxious passengers to unwind. Hidden Safety Features Last, but certainly not least, airlines make it a major priority to make their aircraft as safe as possible. There are a variety of safety precautions in place aboard an airplane, from oxygen backs to an emergency latch on the bathroom doors. However, the true beauty of these safety measures is that many of them are deliberately hidden in some way. Protecting passengers from the very real, albeit rare, potential for disaster is incredibly important. However, broadcasting that these precautions have been taken is more likely to make nervous flyers more anxious than they are to be necessary to prevent a catastrophe. For example, the “William Shatner’s seat,†the seat on either side of the plane with the clearest view of the corresponding wing, is marked with a subtle triangle. This design choice allows the airline’s staff to identify this important vantage point quickly and easily without tipping off passengers to the need for such a view during a potential incident. Flying can be scary, either to first time flyers or paranoid passengers. However, you can rest assured knowing that even getting an aircraft into the air entails a ton of technical considerations, and that same level of care and attention to detail has gone into providing a relaxing environment that can help to alleviate anxiety among passengers. It’s important at the end of the day to remember that, statistically, driving an automobile is far more likely to end poorly.

In a legal sense, a liability occurs when one party fails in a duty of care owed to another and the other party comes to harm as a result of it. In a situation like this, the first party has the responsibility to do something to make it up to the second party, usually by paying damages to compensate for the loss. Flying passengers or cargo from one place to another is fraught with opportunities for damaging mistakes due to carelessness. Therefore, airlines face significant potential liabilities. The first step in protecting themselves legally is for airlines to figure out what, exactly, they can be held liable for. Accessibility As attorneys and court reporters Spokane could tell you, the Americans With Disabilities Act applies to airlines just as it applies to most other businesses catering to the public. This means that it has to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. Examples include seating and restroom facilities for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids, Braille writing for people with visual impairments, etc. Such accommodations must be functionally equivalent; in other words, they must provide the same level of access that a person without disabilities would have. Cargo Cargo refers to the things an airplane carries apart from any passengers. Cargo can include freight, but the two words are not entirely synonymous. Freight refers to items that have been shipped, but cargo also refers to the belongings that passengers take on a plane in the checked and carry-on baggage. To many passengers, weight limits and other restrictions on baggage can seem arbitrary and pointless. However, there is a reason for them. Too much weight in the form of cargo can make flying too dangerous or prevent the plane from lifting off at all. Even when passengers follow the rules, sometimes it turns out that the cargo is too heavy. When this occurs, the airline sometimes puts the baggage on a different flight to the same location, providing instructions for the passenger to pick up his or her cargo at another time. Once a bag is checked, it becomes the responsibility of the airline. In other words, if the luggage becomes lost or damaged due to the negligence of the airline or one of its employees, the airline can be liable for any significant damage done to it as a result. Discrimination or Preference The law requires that all passengers receive equal treatment. An airline cannot subject any passenger to unreasonable prejudice or unjust treatment, nor can it provide some passengers with preferential treatment. For example, if there is a legitimate reason to believe that a passenger's behavior may be a threat to safety, the airline is justified in refusing to carry that passenger and removing him or her from the plane. Nevertheless, the airline must be able to show a demonstrable rationale for expelling the passenger. Otherwise, the expulsion may be considered wrongful, and the airline can be held liable for it. Cancellations or Delays If a flight is cancelled or delayed, the airline may be liable to its passengers depending on the circumstances, such as whether the flight was overbooked or the passengers missed connecting flights as a result. However, it was not always this way. Prior to the Airline Deregulation Act in 1983, passengers could not hold airlines accountable for missed connections, cancellations, or delays. Safety From Injuries An airline has a primary responsibility to keep its passengers safe. If negligence causes an injury to a passenger, the airline may be held liable. If gross negligence in the operation of a plane causes injury to people other than passengers, such as people on the ground, the airline may be liable for that as well. Liabilities can be costly. Airlines can protect themselves from lawsuits by making sure planes are in good repair, flight crews are well-trained, communication is clear and effective, and that cargo is within weight limits and accounted for at all times.

Aviation enthusiasts are always looking for the next big challenge. For many, the ultimate involves restoring and rebuilding an aircraft. This lofty project is not one to be entered into lightly, but if you decide to take the plunge, here are some factors to consider. Find the Right Airplane The details of your rebuilding project will depend largely on the specific aircraft you decide to work on. Purchasing an airplane is obviously a huge investment, so you'll need to do lots of research before deciding which one to buy. Understanding a plane's basic construction is important so that you'll have a good understanding of the different parts of air craft and their distinct roles in flight. As you evaluate possible aircraft for your project, take into consideration the model's general history as well as the specific condition of the airplane you're looking at. Keep in mind that a plane that's in relatively good condition will require less work but will cost more to purchase. You'll need to find a comfortable balance between upfront price versus investment of time and money in restoration. In your excitement to buy your aircraft, don't forget the legalities. Are you buying the airplane from the registered owner, and is there a clear title that matches the serial number? Double-checking these important details could save you from major headaches in the future. Get Ready to Work Once you've landed on your ideal aircraft and negotiated the purchase, it's time to get down to work. One of your first tasks will likely be transporting the plane to the location where it will live while you're rebuilding it. If you're unable to haul the plane as is, you'll need to take it apart so that its components fit into trailers or truck beds for the journey. No matter how you get the aircraft to the workspace, you will eventually need to strip it down. Here's a pro tip for disassembling the aircraft: Take detailed photos from every angle before removing any parts and store the smallest pieces in carefully labeled plastic bags. Analyze the Project With your newly-purchased aircraft now safely in your workspace, you can get down to the business of cleaning and inspecting it from nose to tail. This is where you'll learn exactly what needs to be completely replaced and what you can reuse. This is also the stage when you'll develop a better understanding of exactly how much your project is going to cost. If you have the mechanical know-how and skills to rebuild the entire aircraft, you'll obviously save money and bask in knowing that you did it all yourself. If you're uncertain, don't be afraid to bring in professionals to work on the most complicated systems and focus your efforts on fine-tuning the more cosmetic aspects. Visualize the Finished Product One of the best ways to plan out your project is to use an interior design tool. Typically used by architects, interior designers, and homeowners to develop an accurate visual representation of the home they plan to create, these tools can be adapted to represent your aircraft. Many of these programs allow you to see your aircraft's interior in 3D, so you'll experience the design as if you were actually walking through the space. You can play around with different color schemes and seating arrangements until you hit on the perfect combination. See It All the Way Through Once you've put the final touches on your rebuilt aircraft, it's time to celebrate. But before you pop the bubbly, make sure you see the project all the way through to the end. Test flights, inspection, insurance, and registration are some of the details you'll need to check off your list before you can call the project a success. Rebuilding an aircraft is not for the faint of heart. It's a big undertaking, both physically and financially. But with careful planning and meticulous attention to detail, you can conquer the challenge. The sky's the limit when it comes to restoring an airplane to its former glory or even beyond.

The airline industry is extremely competitive. The intensity of competition is likely to increase in the coming year as airlines confront the impact of travel fears and restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic. To stand out, airlines must focus on achieving great customer satisfaction and loyalty from passengers. Here are several things airlines should be doing to promote a happy and loyal customer base. Tailor the Experience Every customer is unique. Airlines that understand this and tailor the customer experience to individual preferences and needs will be more successful than a one size fits all approach. Giving customers what they want involves analyzing data airlines already have and conducting further research to understand their needs. First-time flyers might require more assistance than seasoned travelers. The business traveler has different preferences and needs than a family. Requirements of elderly travelers are different from a young adult. Airlines with international service must consider global and cultural variations in expectations. Preferences may even vary depending upon the type of trip an individual is taking. Tailoring the retail customer experience for each traveler will build strong, loyal relationships. Airlines can use technology to leverage information about their customers and provide personalized and consistent experiences. Make customer data profiles accessible to employees throughout the travel process. Offer personalized incentives and perks to match customer profiles and preferences, such as a discount birthday flight, or specific deals for a destination they favor. Personalized customer service might involve remembering seat or drink preferences, providing specific in-flight entertainment options, or simply speaking to passengers by name. Airlines can customize communications depending on whether individuals prefer email, text message, phone call or website delivery. Hire Employees That Put Customers First A significant part of great customer service involves making sure employees understand the importance of the goal and what it takes to achieve it. Airline staff need to be friendly people who will make high quality customer service a priority. If employees are rude, unprofessional or unwilling to help passengers, people will take their business elsewhere. Airline management must ensure employees are happy and fulfilled in their jobs. Otherwise, their unhappiness and negative attitude will eventually impact customer dealings. The flight staff probably spend the most amount of time with customers. Maintaining cabin safety and security is a key responsibility during a flight, but the attendants also have a valuable role representing the airline with their on-board service. Passengers will remember the quality of service they receive from cabin crew during flight and whether good or bad these impressions will help determine a customer’s likelihood of returning to fly on the same airline again. Focus on Customers From Beginning to End Customer service begins at the first interaction with your company and continues through the entire process. Good service should be a part of every step, including purchasing tickets on the airline’s website or mobile app, checking in at the airport, waiting at the gate, during the flight, making connections and follow-up after travel. Make sure the guest feels welcome from the beginning and has the best experience possible during flight. Follow-up afterwards to get their impressions of the experience and what might have made it better. Good, attentive service that tells customers their happiness is important to the airline will prevent minor inconveniences from becoming major incidences. Self-service is now a big part of the travel experience, so make sure your software and apps provide seamless transactions. Nothing is foolproof, but minimize opportunities for frustration with your booking site, airport kiosk or e-ticket boarding, and you will be more likely to have satisfied return customers. Recognize the Power of Social Media Do not underestimate the power of social media these days. Most people share their impressions of everything on social media, including airline experiences. Social media can be a double-edged sword. Word travels fast. A bad experience may result in a negative social media post, with rippling effects that do major damage to the company’s brand. However, one glowing customer post can provide an effective positive marketing campaign. Good customer service is important in any retail industry, but in the intense competitive air travel environment it is crucial to success. It is not only important to meet customer expectations, but airlines must go beyond and provide personalized service so passengers will remember the great experience.

Every career has its pros and cons, but some, such as being a flight attendant, present unique challenges. Flight attendants not only must cope with a constant change of location, but they also must learn to prosper in one of the most stressful environments there is: the airport. Airports are full of long lines, cranky passengers and the latest germs. How can a person in this line of work learn to thrive in his or her circumstances? Consider several pieces of advice that may help you as a flight attendant to not just make it through your next work day, but to actually enjoy it. 1. Master the Art of Packing Like all frequent flyers know, having a well-packed suitcase makes all the difference both while you are traveling and once you reach your destination. A big part of the reason that packing well is so important is that it makes it much easier to transport your things and to pass through security checkpoints. Additionally, when you make the most of the space you have and include all of the necessities, you will be much more comfortable when staying overnight at a hotel. As you prepare to pack your luggage, consider what style of bag best suits your situation. Roller bags are often very convenient because the majority of their weight rests on the ground. Try to keep personal items, such as your purse, briefcase or canvas tote bag, as light as possible. Finally, look for suitcases that have a lot of pockets. These will help you to have things like liquids or laptops accessible when it comes time to take them out as you go through security. 2. Embrace the Wait There are some things about traveling that are practically unavoidable. Long lines are one of those things. Although you may be able to reduce your time in lines by arriving at less busy times of day, you still may have to queue up to grab a snack at your favorite shop. It is best to accept that you may spend a fair bit of time waiting and to find a pleasurable way to pass the time. You may wish to listen to music, for example, or check emails on your phone. 3. Take Care of Your Body A sure way of making a work day exceptionally difficult is to catch a cold. Because airports and airplanes contain so many people in such small spaces, it is essential that you take preventative measures to keep yourself healthy. Be sure to eat well-balanced meals and consider taking vitamin supplements. It is also crucial to get sufficient sleep each night in order to keep your immune system strong. Additionally, remember to wash your hands and apply hand sanitizer frequently. 4. Strike Up a Conversation As you may have learned while being a passenger on a plane, you sometimes meet the most interesting people while you're stuck in a cabin thousands of feet above the ground. Whether it's with your crew members or talkative passengers, be open to unexpected conversations. You may just meet someone who gives you a new perspective on life or simply makes you laugh. No matter what, these discussions make the time pass more quickly. 5. Appreciate the Little Things A final tip to consider is to learn to notice and be grateful for little, unplanned blessings. For example, if you get to visit a new city you've never been to before, consider getting out of the hotel to have a look around before you fly out. Additionally, make note of every passenger who pays you a compliment or thanks you for what you are doing. While traveling to new places as a flight attendant may seem like a glamorous position, it certainly comes with its challenges. Even so, modifying your perspective and making the necessary preparations may make your work week significantly less stressful. Once you've done that, you can enjoy the new adventure each day brings.

Taking a trip on an airplane can be extremely stressful for a number of reasons. Many people get motion sickness, dry skin irritation, fear of flying and more just from taking a short commuter trip. These issues can be exacerbated the longer your flight is. This is not to say you should avoid airplanes. They are an extremely efficient and amazing form of transportation. Getting from point A in your home city to point B halfway across the world is much faster when you are flying than if you had to take a car, train and ship! In other words, sometimes there is no way around getting on that plane. If you struggle with any of these issues or any other related to flying, then here are six ways that you can make your flight more comfortable. 1. Use CBD CBD, which is an acronym for cannabidiol, is a substance that is derived from the hemp plant. It has been discovered to have a variety of health and wellness benefits and can really help you in a number of different ways on your flight. You can buy CBD topical cream to apply to dry skin areas. As the lotion soaks in, it will help to heal any stress rashes and will get into your system and help relax you. You can also orally ingest CBD oil, which will really quickly get into your bloodstream and help calm down any anxiety you may be feeling about your flight. CBD is a great asset to have on any airplane! 2. Get a Prescription Sometimes, if your anxiety is really, really bad around flying, you can make an appointment with medical professionals and ask for their recommendation. They may prescribe you some kind of anti-anxiety medication or sleeping pill, which will help relax you throughout your entire flying experience. However, this is a very specific and pharmaceutical way to deal with any anxiety, so only consider this if nothing else you have tried will make your experience more comfortable. 3. Invest in Good Headphones Another item that might help you to feel more comfortable is to find a really good pair of noise-blocking headphones to invest in. As long as you are paying attention to important messages and information from the pilot and flight attendants, you can utilize a pair of these to block out any sounds that are stressful and to listen to a relaxing or interesting podcast, meditation video or even your favorite music. 4. Bring a Distraction This is a great way to make your flight more comfortable. Find something you enjoy doing but may not normally have time for, such as reading, sudoku, watching movies or something else you can do while sitting in an airplane seat and bring the activity with you! This will give you something to look forward to doing while on your flight that will also make your trip zoom by. 5. Dress Comfortably It may seem like a simple tip, but if you dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and relaxed, you will probably end up feeling both of those things even on your flight. Maybe this is a sweatpant and sweatshirt set that you sleep on, or maybe it's your favorite pair of jeans and a loose top. Whatever it is, it certainly will not hurt to wear something that helps you feel physically relaxed. 6. Take Stretching Breaks Even though airplane bathrooms are small on airplanes, there is just enough room for you to do a forward fold and some head and neck stretches. Taking five minutes every hour you are on your flight to go stretch could help you destress mentally and unwind physically, thus making it easier for you to enjoy your flight. Flying is an amazing and quick way to travel, but it does affect everyone differently. For those who have trouble getting on the plane to go somewhere, try one, any or all of these ideas to help make your trip go by as smoothly and easily as possible!

Airports are one of the most difficult structures to clean. Their massive size alone makes them particularly challenging. Just imagine what it takes to clean a 300,000 square foot space with nothing but glass walls…and that is only in a single terminal! Add to it thousands upon thousands of people passing through 24 hours per day, and you have a very unique sanitization situation. Fortunately, there are many things staff and cleaning crews can do to keep airports clean and safe to stay open. All it takes is a team of professional technicians who are experts at commercial cleaning jobs and who showcase an immaculate attention to detail, forward-thinking disinfecting services and adherence to safe protocols as recommended by the CDC. Here is where you will see them at work, from checking in to your flight to boarding the plane. Check In The first place you are bound to see cleaning contractors perform their disinfection services is at the check in counters. As you can imagine, self check in kiosks are some of the dirtiest mechanisms found in an airport due to excessive hand use. At Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, for example, you will find cleaning crews constantly wiping down these screens with microfiber cloths or Clorox disinfectant wipes after each individual use. You will also see numerous cordless vacuums at work in order for staff to safely navigate around the foot traffic entering the building. Terminal Some of the most troublesome areas of concern are the moving walkway and elevator handrails, door handles and bench armrests found in the arrival and departure gates. Numerous travelers touch and use these surfaces each day. Unfortunately, cleaning crews have a difficult time working around the sheer volume of passengers constantly using them. To assist in better being able to clean these excessive germ habitats, airports crews in places such as Pittsburgh and Phoenix have employed automatic floor washing machines to free up additional time for the custodial crews to perform more sanitization tasks on high touch surfaces. These floor scrubbers typical run four or five hours during the evening hours when foot traffic is lower and provide some fun entertainment for those passing through in the middle of the night. Some additional tactics you might see adopted in the terminal include steam cleaning of carpets and furnishings, hand sanitization stations and single-use disinfectant wipe availability for passengers to clean their own surfaces. Bathrooms The public bathrooms in airports are without a doubt one the most intense areas of focus for cleaning staff. Toilets, sinks, floors and even doorknobs have always received their due attention, but nowadays it is common to see further attention paid to hand dryer buttons and even bathroom stall doors, as it is common for people to open and close the doors from the top – not the handle. There have been some really interesting technological advancements to assist in keeping bathrooms as clean as possible. Some airport bathrooms boast occupancy sensors that cue maintenance staff when to clean based on volume of visitors. Others even use smartwatches to coordinate staff schedules to clean based on peak usage rather than a set schedule. Airplanes Finally, there are the airplanes themselves. Airplane crews have been hard at work intensifying their sanitization efforts to ensure flying is both safe and comfortable. Before each flight, crews wipe down upwards of 81 touch points on the plane, including seatbelts, tray tables, arm rests, air vents and call buttons. If a plane stays grounded for more than eight hours, then the aircraft will undergo a deep clean whereby the carpet gets shampooed and the seats get vacuumed. Each plane also receives a full body spray down with an electrostatic cleaning agent each week. Airports and airlines have really stepped up their cleaning and sanitization protocols in order to stay open and ensure an overall safer travel experience. In the end, airports that employ commercial cleaning technicians and a variety of new technology to assist in their disinfection efforts are seeing the most promising results and, therefore, the most satisfied passengers.

Many people dream of flying, but few put in the time, effort, and money to make their dream a reality by getting a pilot's license. Once you obtain your license, you must remain vigilant about safety before, during, and after every flight. Otherwise, your dream could quickly turn into a nightmare, both for yourself and any passengers that you may have with you in the aircraft. The following are important safety tips for pilots of all experience levels. Maintain Constant Communication With the Control Tower Everyone knows that, as a pilot, you must communicate with the control tower during your flight. You probably know to check in after your flight. However, you should also look into the control tower before ever taking off. Find out about the facility and what procedures are in place to deal with any emergencies that may arise. For example, does the tower have an uninterruptible power supply so that it can keep in touch and guide airplanes in even during an electrical outage? These are things that you should look into while you are still on the ground. Continuously Refresh Your Skills As with most fields, aeronautics undergoes a constant state of technological change and improvement. Even if you have been flying for years, there is always something to learn about new aircraft, new equipment, new safety procedures, etc. Refresh yourself occasionally on best practices for your chosen aircraft and maybe expand into something new. There are online resources and courses available to guide you. Don't Fly Too Low Always maintain a safe distance from the ground that gives you ample time to deal with any emergency situation. If you fly too low, e.g., below 1,000 feet, you may not have enough time to recover, even as an experienced pilot. Follow a Pre-Flight Checklist Air safety is too important to leave to chance. Therefore, you should always have a pre-flight safety checklist and follow it before every flight. You may feel that you do not need a written list because you already have it memorized. Nevertheless, if you don't have a hard copy of the checklist before you, it is easier to overlook something and not realize it until you are up in the air. Know the Rules for Radio Communication Clear communication can avoid tragic errors. Unfortunately, the radio tools used to communicate in aviation lend themselves to miscommunication by their very nature. Learn what words and sounds are often mistaken for one another and what appropriate variations you can use to prevent your message from becoming garbled. Be sure to identify the intended recipient, your aircraft, and your location and altitude before conveying your message. Trust Your Feelings If you feel sick, it is best to postpone the flight, especially with symptoms of cold and flu. While these may not be severe, they can still pose a sufficient distraction to disrupt your focus. This is an unnecessary risk that you shouldn't take yourself and cannot ethically ask your passengers to assume. However, it is not only your physical feelings that you should pay attention to but your intuition. If you feel uneasy about taking a flight, for whatever reason, stay on the ground. Don't force yourself to ignore the feeling or allow other people to pressure you into flying when your gut is clearly telling you not to take off. Keep Your Cockpit Sterile A sterile cockpit does not mean one that is clean and free from germs, as desirable as that may be. Rather, a sterile cockpit is one that is devoid of any activities or conversations that are not specifically related to the task of flying. These could pose a distraction that could result in a costly mistake. Distracted flying is at least as dangerous as distracted driving. Perhaps even more so due to the altitude involved. When in doubt, always look to the guidance of authorities, such as the Federal Aviation Administration.

While it’s commonplace these days, it wasn’t all that long ago that flight was thought to be impossible. Even today, there are many factors working against aircraft, and much of airplane design is based around trying to overcome otherwise insurmountable forces. Here’s what you need to know. Air Traffic While the average person doesn’t have to consider the logistics of air traffic, that’s only because the problem has already been addressed. The traffic into and out of airports could potentially devolve into chaos due to the inherent limitations of planes in particular. However, air traffic controllers work to coordinate between the control tower of the airport and any planes with overlapping trajectories. This is accomplished via radio communication and fleet GPS monitoring to track the planes. This helps to minimize the occurrence of potential collisions, and without this service, commercial airlines probably wouldn’t be as widely available as they are today. Luckily, this problem is scarce outside of urban areas, because there are simply far fewer airplanes than cars and more sky than road. Air Pressure One of the most important features of commercial airliners is comfort. Not have flights become commonplace, but they are sometimes commonplace for specific people in certain lines of work. For that reason, flying commercially needs to be comfortable, and the most impressive way in which this is achieved is one that also often goes without notice. The hull of an airplane is designed to provide air pressure stability inside the cabin of a plane, and this accomplishes a few things. For starters, most of the noise and much of the turbulence inherent to air travel is eliminating, making for a more relaxing experience. However, the pressurization of the cabin also protects against the ill effects of drastic altitude changes. The reason that all commercial airplanes feature oxygen bags is to allow passengers withstand the depressurization of the cabin much more easily, whereas it would otherwise debilitate or even injure them. Hidden Safety Features Because there is a lot of potential danger when flying, and because that risk isn’t tenable, the modern commercial airliner has been designed with safety in mind. This manifests in several ways, but one of the most interesting is that of hiding safety features in plain sight. Protecting passengers is important, but it’s also important to note that many people have an irrational fear of flying, despite the fact that it is safer than driving a car, on average. In order to address possible safety concerns without putting passengers on edge, aircraft designers have found several clever ways of hiding important safety features, such as hiding oxygen bags in the ceiling of the cabin, from where they can be released only when necessary. Maintenance Airplanes are complex machines made up of many moving parts. Like any such machine, and certainly like any vehicle, airplane parts degrade over time with use. This means that airplanes are subject to the same maintenance requirements as a car with one important exception. While flying is typically safer than driving, a major mechanical failure would be far more detrimental to the passengers of a plane than to the driver of a car. Because of this, airplane maintenance is scheduled strictly and frequently, and an inspection is required no less than once per year. This helps to ensure the highest possible certainty that a given plane is in perfect working order before each flight, reducing the risk of potential hardware malfunctions and subsequent crashes. While there is no way to eliminate all possible hazards, regular maintenance and inspection can prevent the vast majority of problems. While flight is readily available to most people these days, it’s important to keep in mind how impressive it is. While things typically go off without a hitch in modern aviation, that’s only the result of careful consideration of various factors and the tireless dedication and attention to detail of aircraft pilots and designers.

If your resolutions for the new year included more frequent changes of scenery, then you’re in the right place. Seeing the world isn’t as lofty a goal as it once was. Unfortunately, traveling can be very expensive. Luckily, with a few of these tips in mind, you’ll be globetrotting in no time. Smart Finances Affording travel doesn’t have to mean getting a second job or eating ramen every night for dinner. You may already have the room in your budget to hop on the next available flight. Take a look at your bank account and note from where your money is both coming and going. Most people find that a good amount of their hard-earned cash is essentially being wasted on needless things and experiences. If you’d really like to clear space in your budget, start looking into big moves like debt consolidation, refinancing an auto loan or transferring money from a savings account to pay high-interest debt. You’d be surprised at how much money you could have in an afternoon of financial planning. Establish Savings It may go without saying, but to afford plane tickets to the exotic locations on your bucket list, there’s no way to get around paying the airline costs upfront and in full. Because these costs are often the biggest expenses when planning a trip, having a healthy savings account is a good idea. The only way to sustainably establish a savings account is to work extra hours or make other sacrifices in your budget to free up those funds. Now, for the good news. After you reach your dream destination, there are several ways to save money on other travel expenses like food and souvenirs. While you’re working hard to build up a savings account, look into less expensive, local options that can save you a chunk of change on your trip, so that you can get to where you want to go without having to accumulate thousands of dollars before going. Look For Deals In the digital age, it’s easier than ever to snag a good deal on a flight. Many travel websites publish flight deals daily, and most of them can be customized based on your airport of origin. Sometimes these flight deals can be shockingly inexpensive, saving you some serious money. The downside to travel deals is their fleeting nature. When a flight deal arises, you often have to pounce on it right away to take advantage of the low rate. Airline discounts don’t last long, and it can feel like a part-time job browsing flights to look for the cheapest rates. Consider signing up for a travel service subscription to send price drop notifications to your inbox so you never miss out on a great deal. Do Your Research If a trip to Italy is on your list, but flights to Rome are just out of your price range, check out some other options. Sometimes, flying to another airport can slash your anticipated travel costs nearly in half. Many larger cities have multiple airports within a decent travel distance, so finding your way to see the sights isn’t too much of a hassle. It’s important to think creatively and thoroughly when looking into other options. Sometimes the cost of a train ride from an airport outside your final destination will ultimately cost the same as if you’d flown into a larger airport, but will also add extra travel time and cut into your trip. Make sure your research is comprehensive, and double-check your math after developing each potential itinerary. Spend Wisely Smart money management is important at all times, both when traveling and staying at home. Look at your daily spending habits and figure out where you can cut back and where your money is best spent. By giving up a few luxuries at home, you could be hiking or visiting ancient ruins sooner than you’d think. When traveling, reserve some money for a few splurges, but try to save the rest. If your accommodations have a kitchen, consider making most meals at your temporary home. Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank, and even a little money goes a long way to make one-of-a-kind experiences happen.

Are you thinking of your next vacation but don't know where to go? The United States is full of great places to explore. For your next trip, why not fly out west to experience some outdoor adventures? Or you could hop on a plane and immerse yourself in the diverse culture offered in New York City. Whatever you're in the mood for, there's something out there for you. Here are a few suggestions to get you started on planning a fun and relaxing trip. Florida Beaches The beach has always been a highly popular vacation destination. Florida is a great choice if you are a beach person because you have so many to choose from. Experience the white sands of Destin Beach on the Gulf side. Or try Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic. You can split time between relaxing on the beach and playing in the waves with some inland fun at nearby Disney World in Orlando. Tampa, Florida boasts some great beaches and plenty of cultural activities like museums, zoos and amusement parks. It's also the perfect place to embark on a cruise. With destinations throughout the Caribbean, and even on to the Mediterranean, why not consider one of the cruises from Tampa? Mountain Views of Yosemite If you're looking for a different kind of nature experience, why not fly to California and experience the beauty of Yosemite National Park? This is widely considered one of the most gorgeous parks of the whole country. It has spectacular mountain views, lush forests and cascading waterfalls. This is the perfect destination for the nature lover who wants to hike, camp or even just spend the day appreciating the scenery. San Francisco Close to Yosemite is San Francisco, and you don't want to miss all this city has to offer. There's great shopping and places to eat, along with plenty of culture and unique sights. As a bonus, San Francisco has mild weather all year long, making walking around to explore possible no matter the month of your visit. Desert in Sedona Another popular destination that is just a plane ride away is Sedona, Arizona. Sedona is located in the desert full of alluring views of the red rocks, canyons and open spaces. It's also a draw for those looking to explore their spiritual side with plenty of places to help you explore alternative healing practices and getting in touch with your inner self. New York City New York is a well-known vacation spot. It's a major hub for travel, business and culture. Go to experience a Broadway show, spend the day in one of the many excellent museums or even relax in Central Park. There are limitless options for entertainment in New York City. New Orleans Or you can choose to explore the unique culture of New Orleans. This city is well-known for its music, food and nightlife. You can walk through the French Quarter, which is the oldest part of New Orleans and bursting with history or go on a ghost tour. Fill up on some famous gumbo and then spend the night partying. You don't need to plan your trip to go to Mardi Gras. It's the perfect place to go for some fun and excitement any time of year. Plane travel makes planning a great vacation so easy since nearly any destination is accessible. You may even want to book a trip with multiple destinations. Most airlines offer online tickets and check in, so you can keep your documents and arrangement secure with no fear of losing or misplacing them. If you've been feeling stressed and burned out by everyday life, it's time for a break. Stop talking yourself out of it and go ahead and indulge in the trip you've been craving. You've earned it. Give yourself a chance to blow off some steam and recharge by booking a flight to an exciting vacation spot today.

Flight was once thought to be an impossibility, and yet today, air travel is readily available to the point that it’s taken for granted. Despite flying under the radar, there’s a lot that goes into getting aircraft ready to fly, let alone ferry passengers. From manufacture to testing, this is what you need to know about modern aircraft. Manufacturing The construction of an aircraft faces two major logistical problems. First of all, an airplane is a complex machine, and that means that it will need a variety of intricate components that have to be arranged just so in order to create a functional vehicle. Secondly, the average commercial airliner is massive, and this presents a problem in terms of how the machine is constructed. The process begins with the manufacture of individual pieces, and this includes mechanical parts and pieces of the hull itself, for example. From there, the pieces must be assembled, a project that requires a lot of space and labor. The assembly phase typically takes place in a hangar, because the assembled aircraft will have to be able to leave in one piece. The assembly process starts with a steel frame before pieces of the hull will be welded in place. Between the use of welding and the scope of the project, workers will face a certain degree of danger, but proper arc flash safety protocols make it a manageable task. Once the hull is complete, construction can begin on the interior of the craft. This includes not only the assembly of walls and floors, but also electronics, engines, and other more complex mechanical installations. For example, the control panel of an aircraft can be staggeringly complex, and the plane will need to be fitted with an intercom system, seating, and limited utilities. Testing Before an aircraft can be officially licensed for use, it needs to undergo a variety of tests in order to ensure that the craft is able to fly without any complications. This is important, because the complexity of an airplane means that a lot of things can and will go wrong, and this testing process helps to root out any potential faults that can lead to mechanical failures. This is done in order to protect the passengers, be they the staff or the passengers. One of the more crucial elements of the airplane testing process is ensuring the integrity of the hull. In addition to their massive size and sturdy composition, the thick, steel hull of a commercial airliner is designed to keep the cabin pressurized, something that is difficult to do at high altitudes. Damage to the hull of an airplane can be catastrophic, and even minor faults can cause noticeable problems keeping air pressure. The function of the engine is an even more essential component of an airplane. While this is true of any motorized vehicle, an engine failure in an aircraft spells immediate danger, whereas the breakdown of a car or boat will simply leave their passengers stranded in a relatively safe location. Stress testing the engines is not an uncommon part of the process, because it helps to eliminate the potential for an unexpected engine failure during transit. There are also many functional components of an aircraft that need to be testing. While this applies to a wide variety of functions, the most critical are, of course, the controls of the plane, the intercom system, and various safety features. Without all of these things in working order, the risk of disaster is too high for an aircraft to be certified. However, commercial airliners also need to make sure various other features work as intended for the sake of their passengers. For example, the utilities need to be in working order so that passengers aboard a 14 hour flight have a functional bathroom at their disposal. Likewise, commercial airlines typically offer food and drink to their passengers, without which long flights in particular will be less desirable.

When you travel by air, you do everything you can to be comfortable. By wearing the softest clothing possible and stretching your legs, you assure yourself of arriving at your destination refreshed. However, people that work in the airline industry, like pilots, often don't have this luxury. You almost never see a pilot during a flight and being stuck in a tiny cockpit can have consequences. Here are a few of the most common health concerns that affect commercial airline pilots. Deep Vein Thrombosis If you're a frequent traveler, you've heard about the perils of deep vein thrombosis. This condition happens when a blood clot forms in your lower leg, thigh or other part of the body. It can be caused by obesity, smoking and sitting for long periods of time. To combat deep vein thrombosis, pilots should stretch their legs or walk around at least every hour. In some cases, doctors may recommend the use of compression stockings to prevent blood from pooling up in the lower legs. Poor Nutrition Pilots and other flight crew are notorious for bad eating habits. High-carb airline meals combined with limited offerings in an airport can be a recipe for high blood pressure, skyrocketing cholesterol and weight gain. Pilots should be diligent about finding healthier airport foods such as salads, yogurt and fruit. Another option is to pack nutritious snacks like nuts, granola and use a nutritious thrive experience plan that's easily packed into a carry-on. Sleep Disorders You know how poorly you feel when jet lag sets in? Imagine how this must be for pilots that regularly fly on long trips. For those in aviation, it's not uncommon to experience disruptions such as sleep deprivation on the job, and bouts of insomnia during down time. Sporadic schedules interrupt the circadian rhythm and lead to fatigue. Recommended treatments include quality sleep before flights, using caffeine at appropriate intervals and plenty of interaction with crew members during shifts. Skin Cancer One surprising peril of flying an aircraft is the danger of skin cancer. As you know, it's always sunny above the clouds and many times pilots are hit directly with ultraviolet rays. Higher elevations also mean the sunlight isn't filtered like it is on the ground and it's compounded the closer you get to the equator. Sunscreen must be used faithfully every day and reapplied often. Pilots should also report any incident of skin spots or moles to a doctor immediately. Stress and Anxiety Airline pilots have a tremendous amount of responsibility and that creates stress. Pilots have to contend with irregular shifts, staying on tight schedules, foul weather patterns and concerns over getting diverted. They're also responsible for every person on board. This stress and anxiety can manifest itself at any time including in-flight. It's important for pilots to know how to deal with tension by anticipating problems and formulating a plan. It's also crucial to maintain good communication with all other flight crew. Sinus Infections Though it might not sound serious, sinus infections can be a real pain especially to pilots. Air on a plane is especially dry and that can spell out trouble for sinuses. Add in changes in cabin pressure and an infection could become excruciating. For anyone that's susceptible to sinus problems, a nasal rinse helps before and after a flight. Pilots should avoid touching the face, use lots of hand sanitizer and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Risk Management While pilots have one of the most admired jobs ever, potential health risks come as part of the package. Physical maladies, such as sleep problems and poor nutrition, can be easily dealt with by making a few lifestyle changes. Stress and anxiety can also be managed by identifying the problem and seeking the proper outlets. While any job has its pitfalls, a career as an airline pilot has more positive points than negative and there's nothing else like it in the world.