There is always something going on here at the DOT HQ: presentations, seminars, lectures, pot-lucks, and of course talk about what has been in the press about DOT decisions. So, from now on, I’ll attempt to summarize all this stuff for you; I know that some people really like reading about our work here, so I am trying to make this a one-stop-shop location for important transportation-related events, news, press-releases etc.
This week we had two BTS press releases:
September 2011 Airline System Traffic Up 1.2 Percent from September 2010 and a new Directive for 2012 On-Time Reporting. The second is something really exciting, because the On-Time data is one of the most popular data we have. It gives you information about (domestic) flights reported by large carriers (with at least 1% of domestic itineraries): If the flight was delayed and why, if it was diverted and if so, to where and why. You can also get a summary of which airlines/routes are the best/worst when it comes to timely flights. So next time you plan to take a trip, check it out!
The arrest of the FAA Administrator R. Babbit was probably the event that caused the most confusion within the DOT. Here is the official statement from our Secretary, Ray LaHood:
DOT 160-11
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Statement from U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood:
“As FAA Administrator, Randy Babbitt has been a dedicated public servant and outstanding leader. I’m proud to say that we have the safest aviation system in the world, and thanks to Randy’s stewardship, it became safer and stronger. He worked tirelessly to improve relations with the labor community and bolstered employee engagement among his 49,000 colleagues at the FAA. He led the FAA’s efforts to improve pilot training and enhance safety for the traveling public, as well as those that work in aviation. On behalf of the American people, I thank him for his service and his leadership.”
Interesting to read is also the summary of what was said about this in various newspapers and other media.
Last, but not least, for today: If you want to stay up-to-date with what is happening here at the US DOT, subscribe to the feeds that interest you the most.
Have a good weekend everyone!