Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Scientists struggle to preserve Grand Canyon wildlife]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/scientists-struggle-to-preserve-grand-canyon-wildlife/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/scientists-struggle-to-preserve-grand-canyon-wildlife/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/scientists-struggle-to-preserve-grand-canyon-wildlife/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Grand Canyon needs more water.

That's the assessment of a U.S. Geological Survey report that studied the results of a 2008 experiment. A controlled flood let more water through Glen Canyon Dam in order to replicate the effects of annual flooding from before the dam was built. Sediment from the flood increased the size of sandbars along the path of the river. These sandbars are an essential habitat for the plants and animals living in the canyon and also make handy beaches for weary hikers who have just made it to the bottom.

Unfortunately, the sandbars all but washed away after six months. The USGS and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar are calling for regular controlled floods, especially in spring when the tributaries of the Colorado River naturally flood, and March in order to stop seeds from the nonnative tamarisk from germinating and helping native trout as they grow to maturity. The Glen Canyon Dam was built in the 1960s amid a major controversy over how it would change the river. Several local species have drastically reduced in number because of changes to water temperature and flow.

The problem is, the dam on the Colorado River is a major source of hydroelectric power, and any flooding would reduce the amount of electricity generated. It's a classic case of industry vs. environmentalism, but the huge amount of money generated from tourism to the Grand Canyon may mean the environmentalists have the money on their side for a change.

Scientists struggle to preserve Grand Canyon wildlife originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arizonaColorado riverColoradoRiverecologyenvironmentglen canyonGlen Canyon DamGlenCanyonGlenCanyonDamgrand canyonGrandCanyonwildlifeSun, 07 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iranian and British national museums face off over artifact]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/iranian-and-british-national-museums-face-off-over-artifact/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/iranian-and-british-national-museums-face-off-over-artifact/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/iranian-and-british-national-museums-face-off-over-artifact/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Iran's national museum has cut off ties with the British Museum because of a controversy over a 2,500 year-old cuneiform tablet called the Cyrus cylinder. One of the most important artifacts from Persian civilization, the cylinder was supposed to be loaned to Iran but the loan has been delayed. Iran says the delay is politically motivated, but the British Museum says they need to compare the artifact to two similar tablets that were discovered recently. This is a change from the reason they gave back in October, citing the insecure situation after Iran's disputed national elections.

In anticipation of displaying the cylinder in Tehran, the National Museum of Iran has spent $200,000 to enhance its security systems, but now it has nothing to display. The UK now faces the possibility of having all its scientific and cultural missions to Iran canceled. The move is similar to what Egypt did to the Louvre a few months ago in protest over some artifacts stolen from the Valley of the Kings.

The Cyrus cylinder was made in 539 BC to commemorate Cyrus the Great's conquest of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. The inscription is significant for several reasons. It mentions returning exiles to their homeland, which might refer to the end of the Jews' Babylonian captivity. Some scholars have written that this passage and others about just rule make the cylinder is the world's first declaration of human rights, although it is by no means comparable to a modern constitution. The text is online here.

Iranian and British national museums face off over artifact originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archaeologyarcheologyBabylonbritish museumBritishMuseumEnglandIranian national museumIranianNationalMuseumJudiasmLondonmuseummuseumsPersianTehranSun, 07 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fly around the world in style on the 870 foot tall Aircruise luxury airship]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/fly-around-the-world-in-style-in-the-870-feet-tall-aircruise-lux/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/fly-around-the-world-in-style-in-the-870-feet-tall-aircruise-lux/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/fly-around-the-world-in-style-in-the-870-feet-tall-aircruise-lux/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Every couple of years, someone makes the news with their announcement of a concept airship design that will "revolutionize the way we travel". This time, the design comes from London based design firm Seymourpowell.

Their concept for airship travel is huge - 870 feet tall. capable of lifting 396 tons and offering penthouse apartments, bars and huge glass floors.

The ship has been named "Aircruise", and (on paper) it should be able to carry 100 people from London to New York in 37 hours. The idea is that "slow is the new fast", which is just a cool marketing trick to make you ignore the fact that the trip will take 27 hours more than by plane.

Even though the design is still in its very early stages, Samsung has shown interest in the design, and is working with Seymourpowell on computer aided simulations. My only concern (besides the fear that this thing will never actually be built) is the choice of gas for the lifting bags on the Aircruise - Hydrogen (the same gas that kept the Hindenburg in the air).

Update: Dan Grossman from Airships.net has published a comprehensive article about how the entire "Aircruise" concept is nothing but nonsense. Thanks to Dan for his side of the story and insight into the reality of the airship world.

Gallery: Aircruise airship

Continue reading Fly around the world in style on the 870 foot tall Aircruise luxury airship

Fly around the world in style on the 870 foot tall Aircruise luxury airship originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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American Airlines is set to lose quite a bit of money after a Boston judge ruled Skycaps from 85 airports can join a class action lawsuit against the airline.

At the heart of the ruling is an American Airlines $2 fee for curbside bag check-in at the airport. In the past, curbside check-in was considered free - but tipping the skycap was customary. Once American implemented the $2 fee, passengers assumed that covered the entire cost.

One Skycap testified that his daily tips dropped from $200 to $70.

Logan airport skycaps already won a ruling, awarding them $325,000 to be split between nine workers.

Sadly for American Airlines, their money making scheme may have backfired quite badly. If other skycaps win in this class action lawsuit, any money the airline made with the fee will probably be wiped out.

I'm torn over the issue - none of the new sources mention whether the skycap tips came on top of their salary, or whether they had to live off tips like some restaurant staff members. Assuming they made a normal salary, their $4000/month in tips seems fairly generous. I'm also sure the IRS will be paying attention to this case as it wouldn't surprise me if cash tips were not always reported accurately.

Skycaps take American Airlines to court over loss of tips originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Back in November we reported a plan by the New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust to retrieve crates of whiskey left by Sir Ernest Shackleton and his team after on unsuccessful attempt to make it to the South Pole in 1907-1909. The Nimrod Expedition made it to within 100 miles of the Pole before harsh weather forced the explorers to retreat. They ditched much of their gear along the way, including the whiskey.

In a remarkable feat of icy archaeology, these crates, which have been sitting under a cabin built by Shackleton's team, have been pried free of the surrounding ice. Whiskey company Whyte and Mackay is elated. The company gave the Sir Shackleton the booze but hasn't made this particular blend in decades. They're hoping to sample the blend and replicate it.

The New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust originally thought there were only two crates, so the other three came as a bonus. Three are labeled as whiskey and two as brandy. A few bottles might have broken, however, because the archaeologists smelled alcohol as they dug them up. They still need to scrape off the ice encasing the crates and gently remove ice that has formed inside before they know how many of the bottles are intact.

Continue reading 100 year-old whiskey dug up from Antarctic ice

100 year-old whiskey dug up from Antarctic ice originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archaeologyarcheologybrandyexplorationexplorerexplorerspolar explorationPolarExplorationshackletonsouth poleSouthPolewhiskeyFri, 05 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World's oldest Christian monastery gets a remodel]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/05/oldest-monastery-in-the-world-gets-a-remodel/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/05/oldest-monastery-in-the-world-gets-a-remodel/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/05/oldest-monastery-in-the-world-gets-a-remodel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Egypt´s top archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass announced the completion of a major remodel for one of Egypt´s most important archaeological treasures.

The Monastery of St. Anthony is believed to be the oldest surviving Christian monastery in the world, having been built to house the grave of one of the founders of monasticism, St. Anthony, when he died in the year 356. A $14.5 million restoration has fixed many of the monastery's buildings, including the original fourth century church. Workers also installed a modern sewage system to deal with the estimated million visitors a year who come to worship and to admire the colorful paintings in the churches. These paintings have been painstakingly restored. St. Anthony's Monastery is one of many interesting sights to see in Egypt besides the Pyramids and the Sphinx.

The monastery is nestled deep in the Red Sea Mountains in Egypt's Eastern Desert. St. Anthony lived in a cave near here and started to attract followers during his lifetime. Unable to shake these eager followers, he established a rule whereby they could live together but still have an ascetic life. His ideas on monasticism were hugely influential on early Christianity. St. Anthony is one the most important saints for Coptic Christians, who make up ten percent of Egypt's population.

Continue reading World's oldest Christian monastery gets a remodel

World's oldest Christian monastery gets a remodel originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Do you ever get bored of your own town? How about packing up all your stuff and moving to your very own town? This could be your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rename a town after yourself!

Of course, the move would involve relocating to Latvia, and you'll need to bring a decent chunk of cash along with you, but bidding has opened to find a new owner for the former top secret Russian military town of Skrunda-1.

Bids start at 150,000 Lats (about $290,000 USD). The winning bidder will become the owner of the entire town - including 5 million square feet of land, 10 apartment buildings, two nightclubs, a shopping center, a child care center, a sauna, and of course a variety of abandoned military buildings. The radar facilities were sadly destroyed, so anyone thinking of starting their own secret missile base will need to find somewhere else.

The town has been abandoned since 1999, so you'll need to make a couple of trips to the local equivalent of Home Depot to fix things up.

Continue reading Tired of where you live? Buy yourself a new town in Latvia!

Tired of where you live? Buy yourself a new town in Latvia! originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>skrundaThu, 04 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tourist-friendly Utah drinking establishments on the rise]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/02/utah-drinking-alcohol-laws-distillery/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/02/utah-drinking-alcohol-laws-distillery/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/02/utah-drinking-alcohol-laws-distillery/#commentsFiled under: ,

Utah is not famous for its bar scene. Even non-Mormons have been subjected to half-alcohol beers and strict laws for decades -- but one by one, the Utah's prohibition-like barriers are coming down.


Though the Mormon population in Utah is certainly influential, the majority of Utah's residents are not Mormon, which is part of the reason the laws were changed under Governor Jon Huntsman (who resigned in August of 2009 to become Ambassador to China). Prior to that, drinkers had to be members of a "private club" to imbibe. According to NewsAhead, the Zion Curtain law ("the partition that keeps restaurant servers from passing a drink across the bar") was scrapped last year, as well as a ban which required liquor stores to be closed on election days (makes sense for the voting, but not so much for the celebrating). Abusing these new freedoms will be costly; "From 1 Jul 2010, the liability limit for bars that serve drinks to intoxicated patrons involved in accidents will increase to as much as US $2 million -- the highest in the nation."

Now that less-regulated booze has been added to the the remarkable ski slopes and other tourism draws, the hospitality industry is watching their business pick up. In the ABC video above, you can see a glimpse of one brewery reveling in the new age, Squatter's Pub Brewery in Salt Lake City, as well as the state's first legal distillery since the 1870s, High West in Park City.

It's ski-in ski-out. Click here for more information on visiting!

[via ABC]

Tourist-friendly Utah drinking establishments on the rise originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholdrinkinghigh westHighWestutahTue, 02 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Decade old Concorde crash brings Continental Airlines to trial]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/01/decade-old-concorde-crash-brings-continental-airlines-to-trial/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/01/decade-old-concorde-crash-brings-continental-airlines-to-trial/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/01/decade-old-concorde-crash-brings-continental-airlines-to-trial/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tomorrow, Continental Airlines will have to answer to a French court about allegations it knowingly installed an unapproved part on one of its DC-10 aircraft. That small metal strip is partially blamed for the crash of Air France Concorde flight 4590 on July 25th 2000.

On that fateful day, 113 people lost their lives when the fuel tanks of the Concorde caught fire, sending the plane crashing through a hotel just outside the airport. 109 people died on the plane, and four were killed in the hotel.

The court case has taken ten years to prepare, and follows a 2004 investigation that concluded the crash was caused by the strip of metal that had fallen off a Continental plane that took off minutes before Concorde came down the runway. The inquiry reached the conclusion that the titanium strip had blown a tire to shreds, sending debris into an engine, and blowing holes in a fuel tank.

Along with Continental and two of its employees, the court will also hear testimonies from Concorde program officials and the boss of the French aviation institute. According to the court, the Concorde program managers ignored years of problems, including several identical incidents that thankfully did not end as disastrous.

The main objective of the trial is to determine levels of blame for those responsible for the crash. Continental plans to fight the allegations, claiming the engine was already on fire before the plane hit the piece of metal. In the end, it'll most likely come down to how much was known about the weakness of the Concorde design, and why a simple piece of metal could cause such a catastrophic crash.

The disaster ended more than the lives of the 113 people involved in the crash - it also started the end of the supersonic passenger flight era. After the crash, the entire Concorde fleet was taken out of service for fuel tank upgrades, but she took her final flight on November 25th 2003.

Decade old Concorde crash brings Continental Airlines to trial originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tourists at the National Archives will no longer be able to document their visit, once a ban on photography inside the building goes into effect.

About a million people visit the National Archives each year and though flash photography is already banned inside because of the damage the ultraviolet radiation can cause to the old documents, it's estimated that 50,000 flashbulbs still go off each year (according to USA Today).

The National Archives, located in Washington, DC, houses important documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.

The ban on photos will go into effect on February 24. After that date, those who want a souvenir of their visit can obtain a replica of one of the documents from the gift shop, for a fee of course.

National Archives to ban photography originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Declaration of DependenceDeclaration of IndependenceDeclarationOfDependenceDeclarationOfIndependencedocumentshistoricalhistorymuseumNational ArchivesNationalArchivesphotophotographyphotoswashingtonwashington dcWashingtonDcSat, 30 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Secret tunnel in Dubai a big surprise to drivers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/30/secret-tunnel-in-dubai-a-big-surprise-to-drivers/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/30/secret-tunnel-in-dubai-a-big-surprise-to-drivers/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/30/secret-tunnel-in-dubai-a-big-surprise-to-drivers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A new underground tunnel has opened in Dubai that will save drivers tons of time through one of the busiest sections of the city during rush hour, but no one seems to know where it came from, or when it was completed, including the agency responsible for road construction.

According to this story from Gulfnews.com, the new tunnel runs 1.1 kilometers in length, linking the Downtown Burj Khalifa area to Al Mafraq Road, allowing drivers to bypass the extremely heavy traffic that runs to the nearby Dubai Mall. But major cities open new roads and bypasses all the time. What makes this one so unique, is that it appears to have been completed, and opened, without anyone at the Roads and Transport Authority knowing about it. In fact, an official from the RTA said, "We may have announced this already, but I'm not aware of it," adding, "It sounds like it will save drivers a lot of time."That same official admitted to having no idea when the tunnel actually opened to traffic.

According to the story, the massive four-lane tunnel with a concrete divider running down the middle, has no street signs or name plates of any kind. The unmarked road also remains mostly empty at this time, as it seems that drivers have yet to discover the entrance, giving those that do know of its existence an unfair advantage in the race to and from work each day.

Obviously we've all seen how much construction has been going on in Dubai over the past decade. You know you have a lot of construction underway when a major project like an underground tunnel, such as this one, can be built to completion, opened to the public, and completely escape the notice of the agency that ordered that it be built. Crazy!

Secret tunnel in Dubai a big surprise to drivers originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drivingdubaitunneltunnelsSat, 30 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ABBAworld opens in London]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/28/abbaworld-opens-in-london/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/28/abbaworld-opens-in-london/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/28/abbaworld-opens-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Get ready, ABBA fans, because ABBAworld, the first official (and band-supported) ABBA museum has just opened in London.

The interactive museum will contain 25 rooms full of ABBA memorabilia, including behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, never-before-seen music videos and photos, and clothes, instruments, and personal belongings from each member of the band. In one room, you'll even find the helicopter pictured on the cover of the "Arrival" album.

Visitors will have the chance to feel like a part of the group too, as they see images of themselves projected into music videos and photos and onto album covers (which fans can then access online afterwards). The can test their trivia knowledge with quizzes, remix their own ABBA tunes and even be a "dancing queen" up on stage with a holographic projection of the band.

The exhibit is open daily now through March 28. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster for £21.45 per adult and £14.30 for kids.

The exhibition is expected to visit other cities, but so far no others have been announced.

ABBAworld opens in London originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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16-year old Abby Sunderland set sail last weekend on an attempt to sail solo around the world, and in the process, become the youngest person to accomplish that feat. She launched her 40-foot long boat, the Wild Eyes, from Marina del Rey, California, following a delay of several days due to the heavy storms that have plagued that area recently. If all goes according to plan, Abby will be at sea for roughly 5-6 months, making the journey non-stop without ever pulling into port.

Abby won't just be battling the ocean waves and unpredictable weather while out on the high seas, she also faces a little competition for the crown of "youngest around". Australian teenager Jessica Watson, who we told you about here, is in the middle of her own circumnavigation attempt, having just cleared Cape Horn, at the southern end of South America. Jessica is now making her way across the Atlantic towards Africa. And lest we forget, 14-year old Laura Dekker is hoping to make the same journey later this year, provided Dutch officials allow her to set sail.

For Abby, sailing runs in the family. Her brother Zac temporarily held the record for youngest solo circumnavigation last year when he completed the voyage at the age of 17. His record was bested by British teen Mike Perham a few months later. Perham is also 17, but is a few months younger than Zac.

It use to be that teenagers simply asked their parents for the keys to the car, but in the case of these adventurous young men and women, they're hitting the high seas and spending months alone out on the water. The questions remain however; Should we be encouraging these activities and how young is too young?

Another teenager sets sail on a solo circumnavigation attempt originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abby sunderlandAbbySunderlandadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelcircumnavigatecircumnavigatingcircumnavigationjessica watsonJessicaWatsonlaura dekkerLauraDekkersailingzac sunderlandZacSunderlandThu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 things to do before taking an extended vacation]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/27/10-things-to-do-before-taking-an-extended-vacation/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/27/10-things-to-do-before-taking-an-extended-vacation/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/27/10-things-to-do-before-taking-an-extended-vacation/#commentsFiled under:

Say you're lucky enough to take a long vacation -- a really long vacation, like 6 weeks or more. In your haste to get the heck out of Dodge, don't overlook the many important details that'll make your absence less painful and your return less disastrous.

Take care of the lawn.
The rest of your yard may be OK for a few weeks, but the grass? It just keeps growing -- or, if it doesn't rain, it dies. Find someone to mow and water the grass a few times. If you have a sprinkler system, you don't need to do anything other than make certain it's on and scheduled for a watering every other day (or less, depending on your city's watering codes).

Don't forget the houseplants! They need someone to come water them, talk to them, and play them classical music. A friend or family member is great, or you can pay a service to handle this. Alternatively, you could leave them in a water-filled tub for the duration of your vacation.

Take care of your work.
I don't know how your workplace can spare you for six weeks, but if they're able to, you need to have other people cover for you. Or, maybe you can take work with you (but then it's not really a vacation, is it?).

To manage the work-flow, try to schedule some tasks to be completed just before you leave, and plan for others to start up soon after your return. For everything else, make sure someone else can handle it. Brief them well and give them all the necessary paperwork, contacts, etc. Tell your customers who they should contact... and by "who" we mean "which of your co-workers." Remember, you're on vacation.

Continue reading 10 things to do before taking an extended vacation

10 things to do before taking an extended vacation originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>extended vacationExtendedVacationholdingmaillawncareleavinghomepetboardingvacationWed, 27 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hundreds of tourists stranded at Machu Picchu after flooding]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/27/hundreds-of-tourists-stranded-at-machu-picchu-after-flooding/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/27/hundreds-of-tourists-stranded-at-machu-picchu-after-flooding/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/27/hundreds-of-tourists-stranded-at-machu-picchu-after-flooding/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Severe flooding in Peru has caused several landslides that have left hundreds (reports range from 1500 to 2500) of people stranded at Machu Picchu. Many of the landslides happened on Saturday, killing one tourist and his guide, and leaving others stuck in spots along the Inca Trail that leads to the site. The 40-mile railway that connects the ancient site to Cuzco was also blocked by the landslides, leaving tourists stranded and the city's only hotel overwhelmed as it tries to care for everyone.

According to the UK's Guardian, helicopters are the only option for getting supplies in and getting people out right now. Unfortunately, the going is slow and supplies at Machu Picchu are dwindling. And, says the AFP, some of those stranded are concerned that others are bribing officials in order to be rescued first. In the meantime, those who can't find accommodation are camping out by the train station or in the city square.

Over 1300 homes have been destroyed because of the flooding and landslides, which have been called the worst in 15 years. A 60-day state of emergency has been declared.

Hundreds of tourists stranded at Machu Picchu after flooding originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cuzcoemergencyfloodfloodinginca trailIncaTraillandslidelandslidesMachu PicchuMachu PiccuMachuPicchuMachuPiccuperurailwaystrandedWed, 27 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Air New Zealand to offer lie-flat seats in transpacific economy cabins]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/25/breaking-air-new-zealand-to-offer-lie-flat-seats-in-transpacifi/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/25/breaking-air-new-zealand-to-offer-lie-flat-seats-in-transpacifi/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/25/breaking-air-new-zealand-to-offer-lie-flat-seats-in-transpacifi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After three years of waiting, the announcement is finally live: Air New Zealand will be reconfiguring their Boeing 777 cabins to incorporate lie flat seats in economy, a revolutionary change to transpacific travel and a godsend to long haul passengers. Traditionally, the comfort of lie-flat seats is only reserved for travelers in business or first class, but with these new configurations, even economy travelers will be able to stretch out for a good night's sleep.

The novelty comes with a redesign to the way that economy seats mate together. The combination of a smooth interface between each seat, moveable armrests and an extension to the seats effectively makes a sideways bed onto which a few travelers can lie.

Changes to premium economy and business class will also be redesigned for better space utilization.

Our own blogger Kent Wien is on the ground in Auckland as we type, collecting photos, videos and all of the fine details of the new cabin configurations. Stay tuned to Gadling over the course of this evening for real-time updates, videos, pictures and to take part in the the revolution of transpacific travel as we know it.

Gallery: Air New Zealand's new cabin configurations



UPDATE: Check out Kent's thorough profile and photos of the new seats here!

Breaking: Air New Zealand to offer lie-flat seats in transpacific economy cabins originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air new zealandairlineAirNewZealandairplaneMon, 25 Jan 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Air New Zealand to "revolutionize" transpacific travel with new cabins]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/24/air-new-zealand-to-revolutionize-transpacific-travel-with-new/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/24/air-new-zealand-to-revolutionize-transpacific-travel-with-new/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/24/air-new-zealand-to-revolutionize-transpacific-travel-with-new/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tomorrow's announcement from Air New Zealand about their new cabin configurations is purported to be a doozy, a change to transpacific flight that could forever impact the way we think about airline travel.

A few small clues about the configurations have leaked through, including a recent interview with ANZ's CEO Rob Fyfe where he indicates that most of the changes would be in the economy and premium economy sections. A recent article from the New Zealand Herald also suggests that the airline may go as far as installing lie-flat seats throughout all of coach.

Here at Gadling we've got a couple of ideas for where the award-winning airline can go with their long-haul aircraft:
  • Like Delta has considered, ANZ could reconfigure their cabin with staggered seats, incorporating more room for passengers and creating even more space to pack in seats.
  • One of the wide-body options that Airbus has recently offered is for bunk beds in economy. Could Boeing and their 777 aircraft use the same thing?
  • The above interview with Rob Fyfe highlighted the importance that ANZ is placing on families in the future. Using cafe style (facing one another) seating in coach could help families coordinate, make extra space and softening the pain of long haul travel.
Either way, we've sent our own airline expert Kent Wien out to the Air New Zealand ranch in Auckland, New Zealand to scope out the new changes, snap some photos and get the skinny on what the big excitement is all about. We'll get you updated Monday afternoon after the official launch.

UPDATE: Read all about the new changes here.

Continue reading Air New Zealand to "revolutionize" transpacific travel with new cabins

Air New Zealand to "revolutionize" transpacific travel with new cabins originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air new zealandairlineAirNewZealandairplanetranspacificSun, 24 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another new day, another drunk passenger tries to open the aircraft door mid-flight]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/24/another-new-day-another-drunk-passenger-tries-to-open-the-aircr/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/24/another-new-day-another-drunk-passenger-tries-to-open-the-aircr/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/24/another-new-day-another-drunk-passenger-tries-to-open-the-aircr/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Rarely does a week go by without a flight being diverted because someone became "unruly".

These incidents are often pretty innocent, involving a drunk passenger trying to harass fellow passengers. But every now and then the really insane (or drunk) take things to the next level, often with violence or by attempting to damage the plane.

Last night, United Airlines flight 223 from Washington to Las Vegas had to divert to Denver to drop off a passenger who had attempted to open the cabin door mid-flight.

Thankfully this is almost impossible to do because of door seals and the pressure difference, but that doesn't change the fact that in his mind, he was ready to kill himself and many others on board the plane.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again - insane and drunk passengers are a far greater danger than terrorists. See, you can use technology and profiling to spot a terrorist, but the seriously deranged are almost impossible to detect.

As usual, the culprit in this case was alcohol. He had been drinking before and during the flight, which once again shows how dangerous in-flight booze can be, and how important it is for cabin crew to stop serving intoxicated passengers.

The 129 passengers (minus one) continued on to Las Vegas arriving about two hours late.

Another new day, another drunk passenger tries to open the aircraft door mid-flight originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>geo:36.174999+-115.136398geo:38.892143+-77.036156geo:39.740112+-104.984856las vegasLasVegasUALUalCorpUnited AirlinesUnitedAirlineswashingtonWhere:denver-COWhere:Las-Vegas-NVWhere:washington-DCSun, 24 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily Pampering: Air New Zealand's business class beds]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/22/daily-pampering-air-new-zealands-business-class-beds/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/22/daily-pampering-air-new-zealands-business-class-beds/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/22/daily-pampering-air-new-zealands-business-class-beds/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Have you ever slept better on an airplane than in your own bed? The only time that this has ever happened to me was on an Air New Zealand flight between LA and Auckland, comfortably tucked into the business class cabin on the upper deck of their 747.

This business cabin (lower deck pictured above), a ten seat Eden of comfort, good food and endless inflight entertainment is one of the only ways to cross the Pacific in style, complete with fully lie flat beds, delectable meals and wine and non stop pampering. Perhaps this is part of the reason that ANZ was named Airline of the Year by Air Transport World.

Incidentally, the movers and shakers at Air New Zealand are in the midst of a drastic redesign to their transpacific cabin configurations. It's all strictly under wraps until next week (hint: Monday at 5) so check back then to hear the great news!

And don't forget to get your daily dose of pampering right here.

Daily Pampering: Air New Zealand's business class beds originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air new zealandAirNewZealandairplanebusiness classBusinessClassdailypamperingnew zealandNewZealandFri, 22 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA["Miracle on the Hudson" plane up for auction]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/22/miracle-on-the-hudson-plane-up-for-auction/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/22/miracle-on-the-hudson-plane-up-for-auction/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/22/miracle-on-the-hudson-plane-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The plane that Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger landed safely in the Hudson River just over a year ago is going up for auction. Chartis Aerospace Insurance Services is accepting bids on the plane, which is described as "having severe water damage throughout the airframe and impact damage to its underside" according to USA Today, though March 27.

Unfortunately, as celeb-gossip site TMZ points out, the survivors of the harrowing water landing won't be able to take home a memento from the plane. The plane is being auctioned off in its entirety so those hoping to snag just a small piece cannot do so. Looks like they'll have only their memories. The survivors recently got together on the anniversary of the crash landing and toasted with champagne and Grey Goose vodka (a nod to the flock of birds that downed the plane) at the moment of impact.

"Miracle on the Hudson" plane up for auction originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionCaptain Sullenbergercaptain sullyCaptainSullenbergerCaptainSullyCrash survivorCrashSurvivorHudsonhudson riverHudsonRivermiracle on the hudsonMiracleOnTheHudsonplaneplane crashPlaneCrashSullysully sullenbergerSullySullenbergersurvivorstmzFri, 22 Jan 2010 10:30:00 EST