Current Security Measures In Lieu of Terrorism

It is my personal opinion, the current security measures are both effective, only to a CERTAIN point, as well as for perception and public show, to a certain point. Meaning that, psychologically, a lot of the equipment, manpower, etc., does ensure security, but also sends the message "our airports are safe", and things of that nature. I also feel that very few of the measures are not as effective as the have the potential to be. The objective that we have to realize is that different airports, countries, etc. take much different approaches on airport security.

Here is a very true personal example: I travel quite often on commercial airlines, and for a good while, on buddy passes via pilots for various passenger airlines. One particular trip to Myrtle Beach (MYR) I arrived at Detroit Metro (DTW) a little behind schedule, and was rushing through the security checkpoint. I had no problem nor raised any flags and sailed right through. When I got on board & in my seat, I was fumbling through my carry-on for my book, and noticed I had 3 .44 Magnum hollow point rounds in the front pocket. (I had used the bag going target shooting 2 nights before). I thought, "YIKES!!!!, how the hell did I get through security. I threw them away when I reached MYR. On the return portion, arriving at the airport in plenty of time, I was watched, as well as EVERYONE else from the time I left the ticket counter. The TSA personnel at the checkpoint were so through, they ran my bag 3 times for the following 1) Keys in the bottom of the bag  2.) my bag of change 3) my 2 blackberry devices. Instead of annoyed, I was quite impressed and thought to myself, "what if I hadn't found those bullets on the way down here".


My overall point is that different airport, countries, etc., have both effective, and possible non-effective security measures. However, we have to understand each place does things differently. I found this article from Travel & Leisure, about the various methods of security around the globe. I was interested to know that the French airport security personnel "cannot make physical contact with a passenger unless a law enforcement officer is present", while in the US, the TSA touch more often than a 2nd grade school teacher. http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/global-airport-security

Automation in Aviation

I would like to start of by saying this particular topic is one that I share a high interest in exploring. As both a previous flight student, now a management student, I have a shared view of from both angles. However, in this regard, you will find that my comments will be from more a pilot background.

I think that pilots are losing important manual skills, to a CERTAIN extent. Not completely but to a certain extent. I say this by looking back on my own flight experience. When I first started my flight training at in high school, I started in a 1972 Piper Cherokee 140. My instructor was a retired American Airlines line Captain, who emphasized the “old stick & rudder” technique. I would personally have to yank the flaps in place. When I began at Eagle Flight Center, in addition to my aircraft manuals, etc., I was given a tutorial on the Garman G-1000. WOW!  Quite a difference, although Eagle Flight did teach/train flight students in the traditional manner.

Talking with different pilot friends now in Major & Regional carriers, most find it more difficult learning and dealing with the on-board automated computer systems, then the actually physical act of flying.

From a management point of view, I want to point of the ATC systems at DTW. Parallel Runway operations commence daily using all 4 runways, and separation of aircraft is very strict. Pilots & controllers find themselves making almost immediate turns on take-off as to not set of the ATC collision detection equipment.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704353504575595641282602022.html

The Basics

         I became interested in aviation, as a young child. I was fascinated with airplanes, how they worked, etc. I traveled very extensive with my parents while growing up and became very acquainted with civilian passenger aircraft. I traveled to various states and countries and became deeply interested the everyday operations of commercial aircraft.

        While in Jr. High & High school, I decided that the field of Aviation was my "thing". I made sure to become involved with various organizations that were connected with the industry. I attended summer camps, such as the ACE Academy at Wayne State University & the NASA space camp in Huntsville, AL. These were exciting times as I was surrounded by fellow peers in which loved flying just as I did.

        When I entered high school, I continued to thrive in aviation & flight studies and activities. I completed the Senior level of the ACE Academy, and later traveled to Western Michigan University for the high school summer flight camp.This experience allowed me to have my first flight in a small aircraft with a flight instructor. After returning from the flight camp, I announced to the world that I was going to be an airline pilot.