TSA chief quits amid security controversy
TSA chief quits amid security controversy — The head of the agency responsible for airline security in the US has resigned after warnings that aircraft are still at risk from terrorist attack. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) chief David Stone quit after just eight months in the job. He is the third TSA boss to resign since the 11 September 2001 attacks.
Consumers don’t want cell phones on planes — Worried about “air rage” and constant phone calls, 67 percent of air travelers would prefer current airborne cell phone restrictions remain in place, according to a new air passenger poll. The survey also found that 78 percent of respondents said cell phone use during flight could hamper passengers from hearing emergency instructions.
United faces possible strike — The last thing United Airlines wants  a strike  is looming over the carrier as it tries to emerge from 2 1/2 years in bankruptcy protection. Two unions  representing United’s 6,800 mechanics and 19,500 other ground workers  are threatening to strike if the airline persuades a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge to annul their contracts and impose another round of wage and benefit cuts.
If it’s spring, why is it snowing? — A wet, wind-whipped storm slammed Denver and much of the Front Range on Sunday - stranding people, planes and cars, and promising a messy morning commute today. The spring storm dumped about a foot of snow in Denver and up to 2 feet in parts of Douglas and El Paso counties. Road closures along interstates 25 and 70 to the north, south, east and west of Denver left the metro-area a virtual island.
Is US Airways merging with America West? — America West Airlines CEO Doug Parker has repeatedly said the Tempe airline wants to be a player in the expected consolidation of the troubled industry. One industry analyst said Friday that America West may have bankrupt US Airways in its sights. JP Morgan airline analyst Jamie Baker said in a report that there is “early speculation” on a proposed America West/US Airways “linkage.” He provided no details.
Sky Harbor car renters grapple with fee-for-all — When Mary Zadniknewell picked up their prepaid rental car at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, she had to cough up an unexpected $120 for additional taxes and surcharges. “I couldn’t believe how much the taxes were,” she said. “For that price, they should drive me around.”
Contributing: Charles Leocha, John Frenaye