#Zurich International Airport

[rabbitcruiser]

National Aviation Day

National Aviation Day on August 19 should make us stop and think about the power of flight. Yet, some scientific and technological marvels become so commonplace that we seldom take the time to re-examine their revolutionary impact with an open and inquisitive mind.  In just a handful of generations, aviation went from pure, pie-in-the-sky speculation to a mundane reality that inspires about as much wonder as a trip aboard a Greyhound bus.

It’s that ho-hum attitude to the miracle of flight that makes National Aviation Day such an excellent national observation.  Plus, it takes place on  Orville Wright’s birthday!

Let’s take a closer look.

National Aviation Day timeline

1st Century ADChinese emperor

Legend has it that Chinese Emperor Wang Mang ordered a soldier to strap two wings to his back, who then flew 100 meters.

9th Century ADAn Andalusian takes flight

Abbas ibn Firnas is said to have covered himself with feathers, attached wings to his body and (according to Algerian historian Ahmed Mohammed al-Maqqari) "flew a considerable distance."

1799Cayley is the "father of aviation"

Sir George Cayley, an English engineer, described the model for a modern airplane — a fixed-wing machine with lift, propulsion and control mechanisms.

August 19, 1871Brother Orville is born

Orville Wright was born in Dayton, Ohio. His older brother, Wilbur, had been born in Millville, Indiana, on April 16, 1867.

December 17, 1903Orville pilots a plane

The Wright Brothers — with Orville at the helm and Wilbur making a final wing adjustment — completed the first sustained flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft on a spit of land four miles south of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

National Aviation Day Activities

Take a trip to North Carolina

Build your own airplane

Go "planespotting"!

What better way to commemorate the achievements of the Wright brothers than by flying to North Carolina and visiting the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills? Think of it as a pilgrimage to the spot where American flight first took off.

It doesn't have to be a real one, of course. You can build an airplane using Legos. Or, you can go for that old school-days standby — the paper plane.

Gather with a group of friends where you can watch airplanes taking off and landing. Bring food if the spirit moves you — a "planespotting" picnic!

5 High-flying Facts About Aviation

There aren't that many aviophobes

Maybe that's because so few have flown

A president flies

It started with bicycles

Who needs an engine?

Although it may seem like a lot of people are afraid to fly, aviophobia afflicts only about 6.5 percent of the population.

Worldwide, only about 5 percent of the population has been on an airplane.

The first U.S. president to fly in an airplane was the adventurous Theodore Roosevelt, who flew in a Wright Flyer on October 11, 1910.

The Wright Brothers got their mechanical training as owners of a bicycle shop.

A Boeing 747 without engine power can glide about two miles for every 1,000 feet or so that the plane is above the ground.

Why We Love National Aviation Day

We always choose the window seat

Space is the final frontier

The proclamation is simple and beautiful

Yes, some of us still stare in wonder out the plane's window as we ponder something that seems delightfully impossible. We are, after all, sitting inside a giant flying machine traveling many hundreds of miles per hour, thousands of feet above the landscape below. How can this be?

Many of the mechanical, technological and scientific breakthroughs in space travel would be unthinkable without the advancements inspired by the Wright Brothers' original experiments on a sandy strip of North Carolina coastline.

The National Aviation Day proclamation invites "the people of the United States to observe National Aviation Day with appropriate exercises to further stimulate interest in aviation in the United States." In short, it's a day to keep planes on the membrane!

Source

[tourist-destinations]

Best Airports in the World

Travelling by air is no longer a luxury but an essential service, and when so many factors drive your business, it is crucial to list out the best airports in the world for everyone’s understanding. Airports have induced better service and other factors, making our travel effortless and seamless. Let us deep dive, find the best from the lot, and make sure to capture all of them for your social media handles.

Changi Airport, Singapore

Changi Airport Singapore has been awarded the best airport in the world several times. The number of airlines operating out of this airport stands at around 100. It has also accolades of being the cleanest and stands among the highly rated transit airports internationally. The destinations are Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and North America. It is used for civil and military purposes and is the best airport in Asia. The airport's location is just 24 km from Singapore's downtown. It has the base operations of various airlines like Singapore Airlines, Jetstar Asia Airways and BOC Aviation. Three runways serve it, each four kms long. In 2019, a mixed-use complex to cater to tourists was opened with various retail and entertainment options. Though it is one of the busiest, it is not the world's biggest airport.

Incheon International Airport, South Korea

Incheon International Airport, also termed Seoul-Incheon International Airport, is the largest in the South Korean region. In 2021, it was awarded the fourth-best airport in the world. It also has been awarded the top certificate for security purposes. It has set great examples during the Covid-19 pandemic. The airport comprises a spa, a dedicated golf course, a casino, various indoor games, an ice skating rink, and the Museum of Korean Culture. The airport's departure and arrival average times are a delight for every traveler, as it has the fastest customer processing time across the world. The airport is located 48 km from Seoul. This airport has won various prestigious awards over the years, making it a delight to travel.

Hamad International Airport, Qatar

Though there were some delays in opening this airport, they can handle nearly 50 million passengers per year which speaks about the prowess and efficiency. This lovely airport has an oasis theme and water motif built in and is a delight to pass the time between your flights. They use recycled water to grow the lovely indoor plants, which are a sight to withhold. It has lovely artistry, like the lamp bear designed by Swiss creator Urs Fischer. It played a vital role in handling the usher of guests during the FIFA World Cup. The airport consists of two parallel runways, one considered the longest runway in the world. It also acts as a major cargo destination from across the world.

Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan

The official Tokyo International Airport serves the region along with Narita International Airport. The airport is 15 km south of Tokyo in Ota, Tokyo and covers a 1522-hectare area for its operations. By traveler’s throughput, it is one of the busiest airports in the world. The 2020 Summer Olympics saw the government increase accessibility and made new railway lines, which enabled travel time of less than 20 minutes to Tokyo station. It has three terminals equipped with numerous stores for travelers to enjoy their time here.

Munich Airport, Germany

Munich Airport, also known as Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport, is the second busiest airport in Germany. Lufthansa calls it their den along with Condor and TUI fly Deutschland. The location is 29 km from Munich and is near to the town of Freising. It boasts of two runways and has dedicated parking lots for visitors. The Munich airport center comprises various business and local leisure centres for travelers. This airport also has a helipad, and the two runways are of 4000metres long. It has a lovely visitor viewing area from which great views of Terminal 1 can be obtained.  

Hong Kong International Airport, China

Located in Chek lap Kok in Hong Kong's western region, this airport was started in 1998. This airport has the credentials to hold the world's busiest cargo gateway and the largest terminals for passenger movement. It employs almost 70000 people, making it a big employment zone for the country. It covers an area of 3101 acres and has 90 boarding gates. It has two terminals and huge concourses for swift movement of air traffic. It has various engagement avenues for the public to keep engaged during a long flight haul.

Dubai International Airport, UAE

With a whopping 88 million passengers in 2017, Dubai International Airport was the fifth busiest in the world. It operates out of two runways, which are more than 4500 meters long. Dubai, being a major flower imports center has a dedicated arm for the smooth functioning of the same. The airport speaks of the luxury of Dubai and caters to travelers with the multitude of duty-free shops, premium lounges, and world-class amenities. It acts as a s primary fulcrum in global aviation between the west and the east.

Zurich Airport, Switzerland

This airport, which started in 1948, serves Zurich, Switzerland and is located 13 km from it. It has three operational runways, each beyond the 2500 m length, serving around 29 million passengers yearly. According to officials, this number is forecasted to reach 50 million by 2030. The terminals are well maintained and equipped with essential and luxury brand outlets for everyone's delight. This airport deals with the tourists coming in from the world over to witness the beauty of Switzerland.

Vancouver International Airport, Canada

The airport in Vancouver serves the Lower Mainland region and has a dedicated float plane terminal, making it unique. It is a star-studded affair as it has won 12 nonstop awards for Best North American Airport till 2022 by Skytrax. The airport also holds worthy mention of having a maximum number of direct flights to China than any other across this region. It has three runways, out of which two are more than 3000 meters long while the third is 2225 meters. It navigates the traffic through two terminals—the Main terminal deals with the domestic and international concourses. Every region inside is covered with dedicated internet, while the south terminal is for the float planes.

Summary:

These airports’ ultimate goal is to provide seamless and hassle-free travel to their patrons. They make the design and feel in sync with the latest trends to appeal to the public. With the need for flights growing daily, these airports must keep up with legal issues and other regulatory norms for smooth operations.

[allthecanadianpolitics]

Brink’s, Inc. has filed a lawsuit against Air Canada (AC) for failing to provide safe and secure handling of shipments of 13,612,696.75 in Swiss Francs and gold bars valued at US$1,945,843.00 (an approximate total of C$23 million).

In April of this year, the valuable shipments landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport and were stolen shortly thereafter.

A subsequent police investigation has not turned up the goods or the culprits. Brink’s, meanwhile, has decided to pursue the matter in the Federal Court, filing a Statement of Claim in Toronto on Oct. 6.

This shipments were handled by AC Secure, states the claim. Quoting the AC Secure website, Brink’s says it’s an Air Canada service intended to provide enhanced safety for “high-value shipments”, such as “secured holding areas” supervised by third-party security guards.

The shipments took shape in April 2023, when Raiffeisen Schweiz, a Swiss retail bank, contracted Brink’s to transport a shipment of banknotes with a value of$1,945,843 USD, from Zurich to Toronto. Valcambi SA, a precious metals refining company based in Switzerland, also contracted Brink’s to transport a shipment of gold with a value of 13,612,696.75 Swiss Francs, from Zurich to Toronto. [...]

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Tagging: @politicsofcanada

[thedesignair]

A new sustainable, yet ultra-modern pier is coming to Zurich International Airport

A new sustainable, yet ultra-modern pier is coming to Zurich International Airport

June saw the announcement of a brand new pier at Zurich’s International Airport. After over 35 years in operation, Dock A has now reached the end of its life cycle and has to be replaced. In its place, will sit a brand new and stunning construction, brought to life by the teams at BIG, HOK and 10:8 Architekten.   “Raumfachwerk” as it will be known, will take 10 years in total to complete, which…

[architectnews]

Expandable House Batam, Riau Islands

Expandable House Batam, Riau Islands Home by ETH Zurich, New Sustainable Indonesian Residence Photos

Expandable House, Batam, Riau Islands

4 June 2022

Design: ETH Zurich / Stephen Cairns with Miya Irawati, Azwan Aziz, Dioguna Putra and Sumiadi Rahman

Location: Batam, Riau Islands, Indonesia

West elevation of fully expanded house showing the perforated aerated cement block on the lower floors:

Photos: Mario Wibowo

Expandable House, Batam Riau Islands, Indonesia

Expandable House, Batam Riau Islands

The expandable house combines a conventional steel-reinforced concrete frame with an aerated concrete block cladding and an innovative composite bamboo cladding:

Tailored to and learning from the rapidly expanding peri-urban fringes of Asian cities like Batam – the world’s fastest-growing in 2015 – this new sustainable dwelling type is designed to be flexibly configured around its residents’ often precarious resources over time.

Locally made retractable bamboo screens are used for rain screens, shading and privacy:

Its steel-reinforced concrete frame has aerated concrete block cladding at ground and composite bamboo cladding or retractable bamboo screens above.

Hydroponic cultivation of leafy greens in the companion vertical kitchen garden (or kebun susun):

It is based around the following five principles:

(1) Sandwich section: the roof can be hoisted to add levels – the foundations can support up to three floors.

(2) Domestic density: the house encourages densification at domestic and neighbourhood scales.

(3) Decentralised systems: rainwater harvesting, solar panels, septic tanks and passive cooling principles are integrated.

(4) Productive landscapes: a vertical kitchen garden and bamboo nursery are included.

(5) Seed package: the technology, resource strategies and design guidelines can be developed in different ways depending on local social, cultural and environmental conditions.

Interior detail showing the perforated aerated cement block and composite bamboo panels:

The project supplements the dynamic logics of auto-construction endemic to rapid urbanisation in peri-urban regions:

Expandable House, Batam, Riau Islands, Indonesia – Building Information

Award Cycle: 2020-2022 Cycle Status: Shortlisted Location: Batam Riau Islands, Indonesia

All technologies employed in expandable house were sourced locally:

Client: Batam Municipal Planning Authority and community leaders of Kampung Batu Besar neighbourhood Architect: ETH Zurich / Stephen Cairns with Miya Irawati, Azwan Aziz, Dioguna Putra and Sumiadi Rahman Completed: 2019 Country of origin: Indonesia

Detail view of the kitchen garden:

2022 Aga Khan Award for Architecture Shortlist

House designs

Expandable House, Batam, Riau Islands images / information received 020622 from the Aga Khan Award for Architecture – AKAA

Expandable House, Riau Islands, – on the Aga Khan Award for Architecture website

Location: Jakarta, Indonesia, south east Asia

Indonesia Architecture

Indonesia Architecture : links

Indonesia Architecture News

Indonesian Building Designs

Banyuwangi International Airport, East Java, Indonesia Design: andramatin photo : Mario Wibowo Banyuwangi International Airport, East Java

Dhsac Residence, South Jakarta Design: Bitte Design Studio photos : Ditho Sitompoel and Ernest Theofilus Dhsac Residence, South Jakarta

PT Telkom Landmark Tower Jakarta Building Design: Woods Bagot Architects photo : William Sutanto PT Telkom Landmark Tower Jakarta Building

Torok Hill Resort, South Lombok Design: NIC BRUNSDON image courtesy of architects practice Torok Hill Resort South Lombok

Patimban New City masterplan , Patimban New City, Subang, West Java Design: BDP image courtesy of architects practice Patimban New City masterplan

House O, Mas, Bali Design: Alexis Dornier image from architects House O in Mas Bali

Indonesian Architect Studios

Indonesia Buildings

ETH Zurich Architecture

ETH Zurich Building Designs

Advances in Architectural Geometry Conference 2016 photo from architects Advances in Architectural Geometry Conference 2016 Zürich

New Physics Building for ETH Zurich Design Competition, Hönggerberg Campus, Switzerland Design: Stanton Williams with Stähelin Architekten picture from architects ETHZ Building Zürich

The Sequential Wall, ETH Zürich, Switzerland Design: various architects The Sequential Wall

“focusTerra” exhibit, Natural Sciences Institute, ETH Zurich focusTerra Zurich

Comments / photos for the Expandable House, Batam Riau Islands designed by Architect: ETH Zurich / Stephen Cairns with Miya Irawati, Azwan Aziz, Dioguna Putra and Sumiadi Rahman page welcome

The post Expandable House Batam, Riau Islands appeared first on e-architect.

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

In brief: airport operations in Brazil

The federal government owns most of Brazil’s major airports. Infraero is the entity through which the government controls and administers the airports. In preparation for the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games, and in response to public demands, the federal government privatised three major airports in Brazil in 2012:

São Paulo-Guarulhos (Cumbica) airport, sold to a pool of investors called Investimentos e Participações em Infraestrutura SA and South African Airports Company;

Viracopos airport, located approximately 90km from the City of São Paulo and sold to a pool of investors called Aeroportos Brasil; and

Brasília airport, sold to a pool of investors called Inframérica, a joint venture composed of Infravix Participações SA and Corporacion America SA.

In 2013, the international airports of Rio de Janeiro (Galeao) and Belo Horizonte (Confins) were also sold, respectively, to a pool of investors called Aeroportos do Futuro, a joint venture composed of Odebrecht Construtora (Brazilian) and Changi (Singaporean), and to a pool of investors called Aerobrasil, a joint venture composed of CCR (Brazilian) and Flughafen Zurich (Swiss). Also, the international airport of Natal (in the state of Rio Grande do Norte) has been under private management since 2011. The international airport of Natal is managed by Inframérica, the same joint venture that manages the airport of Brasília.

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[commercialwindowshieldo]

Commercial Window Shield: Window Film Installation

GALENA PARK, Texas – Commercial Window Shield has been retained by the Galena Park Independent School District for a safety and security window film installation project for 25 buildings in their school system.

The project involves the installation of a clear 15-mil film with a wet-glaze attachment system on all ground floor entrance doors and windows. In total, 33,000 sq. ft. of safety and security window film will be installed on the buildings’ glass. Galena Park is a suburb of Houston, the country’s fourth largest city.

Funding for the project comes from the state of Texas’s School Safety Standards Formula initiative, which allocated $400 million to public schools for enhanced safety. The initiative was sparked by a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in May 2022 during which 19 students and two teachers were killed and 17 students wounded by a lone gunman who entered the school through a building door.

The work at Galena Park ISD, which has 22,000 students, is scheduled to begin this spring and will be on-going throughout the year.

The Galena Park ISD security window film installation project continues a national trend in which school districts are acting to protect their students and employees from potential violent building intruders with the installation of safety and security window film in vulnerable glass entry areas.

Commercial Window Shield has been at the forefront of the school security movement over the past decade. Including this project, the company has protected the glass in more than 360 school buildings in 12 states.

Elsewhere, the company has completed safety and security film projects at Geneva, Minooka and Lake Zurich school districts in suburban Chicago; Calvert, St. Mary’s and Carroll County [Md.] Public Schools; Mechanicsburg and Bath Local Schools, near Lima, Ohio; Bellmore and Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools, N.Y.; Hartford, Glastonbury and Simsbury school districts in Connecticut; Norfolk and Henry County in Virginia; Beaverton, Ore.; Comanche Public Schools, Comanche, Okla.; Lansdale, Pa.; and Katy, Rockwell and San Antonio school districts in Texas.

With more than 40 years of experience, Commercial Window Shield is one of the nation’s leading security and solar control window film installers. Among its many projects, the company has protected windows at the U.S. Capitol, FBI headquarters, Pentagon, all House of Representative buildings, O’Hare International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the Willis Tower [former Sears Tower], Denver Mint, Grand Central Terminal and the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.

Source URL:- https://sites.google.com/view/commercialwindowshield223/home

[flairyourtrip]

Your Perfect 7 Day's Switzerland with Austria Itinerary

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Arrival in Interlaken and Scenic River Cruise

Upon arrival in Zurich, meet our representative and proceed to Interlaken via a scenic train journey. Check into your hotel and unwind before embarking on a delightful river cruise on Interlaken Lake, offering quality family bonding time. Return to the hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.

Day 2: Explore Interlaken's Nearby Attractions

After breakfast, embark on a train journey to Kleine Scheidegg via Lauterbrunnen to explore iconic attractions like Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest station, and the enchanting Ice Caves. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at one of the international restaurants. Return to Interlaken, with an optional stopover at Grindelwald for added enjoyment. Relax and recharge at your Interlaken hotel.

Day 3: Lucerne Excursion and Mount Titlis Adventure

Check out from your Interlaken hotel after breakfast and travel to Lucerne. Experience an exhilarating expedition to Mount Titlis, taking in breathtaking views and visiting attractions like the Glacier Cave. Enjoy lunch at one of the mountaintop restaurants. Return to your Lucerne hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 4: Arrival in Salzburg and City Exploration

After breakfast, depart for Salzburg by train. Check into your hotel and take a brief rest before embarking on a city tour. Explore Salzburg's highlights, including Mirabell Palace, Mozart's former residence, and other iconic landmarks. Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 5: Journey to Vienna and Musical Fountain Cultural Show

Check out from your Salzburg hotel after breakfast and proceed to Vienna. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy leisure time. In the evening, experience a captivating Musical Fountain Cultural Show near the Vienna Opera. Return to your hotel for a peaceful night's rest.

Day 6: Vienna Sightseeing Tour

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Vienna, starting from Südtiroler Platz and covering landmarks like the Vienna State Opera and Hofburg Palace. Explore cultural treasures such as Schloss Schönbrunn and iconic museums. Return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.

Day 7: Departure from Vienna

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your memorable Switzerland and Austria tour.

[zurichairportlimo]

Zurich Limousine Service: A Comprehensive Guide

Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a bustling metropolis that attracts numerous visitors for business and pleasure. Navigating the city can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors or large-group organizers. To ensure a smooth and comfortable experience, many travelers opt for Zurich limousine services, which offer a range of benefits and amenities. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Zurich limousine services, including airport transfers, business travel, special occasions, city tours, and more. Airport Transfers: Zurich limousine services provide efficient and comfortable airport transfers, ensuring that travelers reach their destination on time and in style. These services cater to both individuals and groups, offering a hassle-free alternative to traditional taxi services or public transportation. With professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles, airport transfers ensure a smooth journey from the airport to your hotel or other desired location. Business Travel: For business travelers, Zurich limousine services offer a convenient and luxurious way to travel to meetings, conferences, and events. With flexible scheduling and customizable packages, these services allow business travelers to focus on their work while the chauffeur handles the transportation. Additionally, many limousine services offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, bottled water, and passenger insurance, ensuring that business travelers have everything they need during their journey. Special Occasions: Zurich limousine services are also popular for special occasions such as weddings, proms, and birthdays. These services offer a range of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets, from luxury sedans to spacious vans. With experienced chauffeurs and customizable packages, Zurich limousine services help create memorable experiences for those celebrating a special occasion. City Tours: City tours are another popular service offered by Zurich limousine services. With knowledgeable chauffeurs who can provide insights into the city's history and culture, these tours offer a unique and personalized way to explore Zurich. City tours can be customized to suit different interests and time constraints, ensuring that travelers get the most out of their visit to the city. Point-to-Point Transfers and Road Shows: Zurich limousine services also offer point-to-point transfers and roadshows for those traveling between different locations within the city or the surrounding areas. These services provide a convenient and efficient way to travel, allowing travelers to focus on their business or leisure activities without worrying about transportation logistics. Custom Services: Many Zurich limousine services offer custom services to cater to specific needs or preferences. These can include airport transfers with meet-and-greet services, hourly limousine services, and international tours. With a range of vehicles and customizable packages, Zurich limousine services can accommodate a wide variety of travel needs.

[rabbitcruiser]

The Star Alliance, the world's largest global airline alliance, was founded on 14 May 1997.

[blueboxphenomenon]

The Gatwick Incident, 1966

London. 20th July, 1966

On the morning of July 20th, 1966 flight 729 returned from Madrid to Gatwick airport, only to be forced to abort its attempted landing due to an obstruction on the intersections of runways five and two. The pilot reported the presence of a police box on the runway, prompting air traffic control to dispatch police. Police chased away four strangers, and the police box was collected from the runway. Control initially believed it to be the product of a practical joke. If only they knew what they were in for that day…

If you were a student in 1966 looking for a cheap gap year, Chameleon Tours were your best budget option. For just £28, Chameleon Tours offered people between the ages of 18-25 a package holiday to any one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe: Zurich, Rome, Athens, Dubrovnik, and Freiburg, Madrid, and Baden-Württemberg. It was a popular choice, with 50000 young people taking to Europe from Gatwick via Chameleon Tours, who operated four of their own planes from the airport.

Fifty-thousand young adults left Gatwick for various European flights, and not a single one returned. One of those people was Ryan Briggs, who took a Chameleon Tours flight to Rome. Everything seemed normal to his family at first. Ryan caught his flight, and sent back a hand-written postcard shortly after arriving. However, that was the last the Briggs family heard from Ryan for some time. His sister, Samantha Briggs, implored the authorities for help, but was unable to get anywhere with them. She contacted the hotel at which Ryan was supposed to be staying, only to find he had never checked in. Police in Rome found no trace of a Ryan Briggs, and neither did Rome's international airport. Inspector Gascoigne was the first to take Samantha's worries seriously and, on the 20th of July, arrived at Gatwick to investigate. While airport security was dealing with the matter of a police box and four trespassers, Gascoigne was investigating the private Chameleon Tours hangar. That is where his corpse was later found, his clothes singed as though he somehow died by electrocution.

A police box on a runway, a missing young man, and a murdered police officer. You would think things were already as strange as they were going to get, but you'd be wrong. Two people arrived at Immigration and Customs attempting to report a dead body. They arrived with no passports, despite coming from the arrivals gate. One was a scruffy-looking gentleman in a frock coat and the other a boy with a Scots accent wearing a kilt. When interviewed by journalist James Stevens, Samantha Briggs would describe the scruffy-looking man's accent as "blurred," and referred to him as "a short man with a mournful face and dishevelled clothing." He seemed to her to be "incredibly well informed." Everyone seemed to call the man "Doctor," as though it were more of a name than a title. The Scots boy wearing the kilt went by the more conventional name of Jamie. Curiously, a white-haired man also calling himself "Doctor" was present with Sir Charles Summer in South Kensington at the time, seemingly involved with the on-going War Machine threat caused by the activation of WOTAN.

The airport manager, Charles Gordon, was called to satisfy the Doctor's demands to see a figure of authority about the body, and escorted the mystery man and Jamie to the Chameleon Tours hanger, where they found nothing more than a crate of plastic cups. Unamused by the Doctor's claims, Gordon tried to have trespassers arrested, only for them to escape.

It was around this time that Samantha Briggs arrived at the Chameleon Tours kiosk to make enquiries about her missing brother Ryan Briggs. She found the representitive entirely unhelpful but ended up meeting with Jamie, who promised that he had a friend who might know how to help her, and mysteriously asked that they meet later. It was Samantha that made an important discovery in the case of the missing passengers - Chameleon Tours had their customers fill out postcards before leaving on their flight. The postcards were collected at the kiosk, sent out to Chameleon Tours facilities at the country the flights were supposed to go to, and then posted back by Chameleon Tours to the families in the UK as if from the passengers. Meanwhile, Detective Inspector Crossland arrived in search of his missing collegue: Detective Gasgoigne.

Inspector Crossland was able to convince Charles Gordon to humour the Doctor further, and it appears some members of Gatwick staff were starting to come around as it was the manager's assistant Jean Rock who made the next key discovery. Having called around the various international airports to which Chameleon Tours were chartering flights, she discovered that Chameleon Tours only ever picked up passengers but never dropped them off. It was as though the passengers disappeared mid-flight.

Gatwick usually only monitors flights for around fifty miles before they drop off the radar, otherwise they would have too much traffic to monitor. It was not unusual that Chameleon Tours flights disappeared from their radars after fifty miles, as they simply weren't looking that far. Manager Gordon could not have expected to see what he did when he requested the RAF to tail the 1530 to Rome, however. As the Chameleon Tours flight to Rome reached the edge of expanded radar range, the RAF jet was seen to go completely out of control and crash into the sea, disappearing from radar. The Chameleon Tours flight then appeared to stop moving, something that could only indicate that it was dropping straight down. The plane then disappeared off radar.

The initial assumption was that the two aircraft had collided, dropping into the ocean. When rescue services found the wreckage, however, there was only wreckage of the RAF fighter jet and no sign of the 1530 to Rome. The pilot was found electrocuted in his seat. So where did the Chameleon Tours flight go? Where do all the Chameleon Tours flights go? Perhaps the plane did not drop out of the sky, but instead shot directly upwards beyond the scope of radar, into space. Maybe that sounds farfetched, but how else do you explain an aeroplane hovering in the same spot on radar but without leaving wreckage in the sea below? Admittedly, many wrecks are lost at sea, but then how do you reconcile the fact that the RAF flight, which went down at the same time, was found while the Chameleon Tours flight was not?

Let's break down what was happening. Chameleon Tours planes would leave from Gatwick carrying a cabin filled with young people. They would fly fifty miles out of the UK and disappear. The flight would then return without passengers. Postcards from the passengers, filled out before the flight, would be sent to the plane's supposed destination and then posted back to the UK to make it appear as if the passengers arrived safely. But to what end?

The reports of DI Crossland simply refer to "holiday fraud," and while there are no police reports regarding the recovery of the fifty-thousand missing people, they started to turn up on delayed flights for the rest of the evening, trickling back into society as if they hadn't gone missing at all. Twenty-five members of staff at Gatwick airport recall waking up lying on the concrete in the carpark, missing hours of time with no recollection of how they got there.

Some theorise that Chameleon Tours were a cover for a human trafficking ring and even though they were busted the whole thing was covered up so London's second biggest international airport could save face. Others theorise that it was a money laundering front involving simply moving the same group of people around to make the company look busier than it really was. More outlandish theories include Chameleon Tours being a result of C-Day and the compute WOTAN trying to wipe out humanity, a system of alien abductions replacing people with shapeshifting duplicates, and a government test of international security where they abducted real people and wiped their memories before returning them later.

Whatever the truth was behind Chameleon Tours, there are plenty of witnesses to the presence of "the Doctor" and it features one of the most convincing blue box sightings in history as it comes from a pilot.

[zurichtaxitransfer]

Getting to and from the Zurich airport is generally a smooth process with various efficient transportation options - trains, taxis, hotel shuttles, and private car services get you where need to go. However, for visitors arriving after long international flights, navigating these choices can feel complicated, tiring, and stressful. Hiring a private limousine service solves these issues. Drivers will meet your flight and transport you directly to your hotel or destination without any hassles over tickets, transit connections, or luggage. 

[himalayancrest]

6 Countries With No Airports And They Are Happy

Introduction:

Airports are often seen as gateways to the world, connecting countries and cultures. However, some nations have chosen a different path, opting to remain airport-free. Surprisingly, these countries have thrived without the convenience of air travel. In this article, we will explore six such countries, their unique transportation alternatives, and the reasons why they have chosen to go airport-less.

1. Andorra:

Nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, Andorra is a small European country with no airports. Travelers typically reach Andorra by road, with bus and car being the primary modes of transportation. Despite its lack of airports, Andorra attracts visitors with its stunning mountain landscapes and ski resorts.

2. Monaco:

Monaco, the world's second-smallest country, is another nation without an airport. Instead, it relies on its proximity to the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in France, just a short drive away. Monaco's compact size and excellent road network make airport infrastructure unnecessary.

3. San Marino:

San Marino, a landlocked microstate within Italy, has no airports. Travelers can access this picturesque enclave by road. San Marino's hilly terrain and historical charm make it a unique destination, even without air travel.

4. Liechtenstein:

Liechtenstein, one of the world's smallest countries, does not have an airport. Travelers typically arrive via Zurich Airport in Switzerland, just over an hour's drive away. Liechtenstein's efficient road connections make up for the lack of air travel options.

5. Vatican City:

The world's smallest independent state, Vatican City, also lacks an airport. Visitors usually arrive in Rome, Italy, and then make their way to the Vatican by road or rail. The Vatican's compact size makes this mode of transportation convenient.

6. Nauru:

Nauru, a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, once had an airport but ceased its international operations. Today, travelers must arrive via Brisbane, Australia, by air and then connect to Nauru. Despite its remote location, Nauru's unique culture and natural beauty draw visitors.

Conclusion:

These six countries have proven that life without airports is not only possible but often preferable due to their specific geographical and logistical considerations. While they may not offer the convenience of direct air travel, these nations continue to thrive, attracting visitors with their distinct cultures, landscapes, and alternative transportation options.

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Seamless Transfers from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grindelwald A Traveler's Guide

Milan Malpensa Airport, one of Italy's busiest international airports, serves as a gateway to various European destinations. For travelers seeking an enchanting Swiss alpine experience, Grindelwald beckons with its picturesque landscapes and charming ambiance. Navigating the journey from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grindelwald can be made easy and stress-free with the right information and planning.

Transportation Options:- Several transportation options are available for travelers making the journey from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grindelwald. The two most popular choices are by train and private transfer.

a. Train:- The train journey from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grindelwald involves a scenic ride through the Swiss countryside. Travelers can take a train to Zurich and then transfer to another train headed to Grindelwald. While this option may take a bit longer, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning Swiss landscapes.

b. Private Transfer:- For those looking for a more convenient and personalized experience, private transfers are an excellent choice. Numerous companies provide door-to-door service, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Booking a private transfer allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of navigating multiple modes of transportation.

Duration and Distance:- The distance from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grindelwald is approximately 290 kilometers. The journey duration varies depending on the chosen mode of transportation. Train journeys may take around 4 to 5 hours, including transfers, while private transfers can offer a more direct route, reducing travel time to approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Booking and Reservations:- To ensure a hassle-free journey, it is advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Train tickets and private transfer services can be booked online, allowing travelers to secure their seats and plan their itineraries with confidence.

Considerations for Comfort and Convenience:- When choosing between train and private transfer, consider factors such as travel time, luggage handling, and personal preferences. Private transfers provide a door-to-door service, making them particularly convenient for those with heavy luggage or a preference for a direct route.

Exploring Grindelwald:- Upon arriving in Grindelwald, travelers are greeted by the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps. This charming village offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and exploring the Jungfrau region. Take time to stroll through the picturesque streets, visit local cafes, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that Grindelwald has to offer.

Transferring from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grindelwald can be a seamless and enjoyable experience with careful planning. Whether you choose the scenic train journey or opt for the convenience of a private transfer, the enchanting landscapes of Grindelwald await, promising an unforgettable Swiss adventure.

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Transfers from Milan Malpensa Airport to grindelwald

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Sunday, January 7, 2024

The world’s most expensive cities (Economist) Tied in first place this year were Singapore and Zurich. Singapore is no stranger to the top spot: it has ranked as the priciest place to live in nine of the past 11 years. Groceries, alcohol and clothing in the international business hub can cost a small fortune. Zurich, meanwhile, jumped five places from last year. Switzerland’s largest city is perennially pricey; it came joint first in 2020 and rarely leaves the top ten. Its rise to the top of the index is mostly because the Swiss franc has appreciated by more than 10% against the dollar over the past year. Geneva and New York tied for third. Western European cities, including Copenhagen, Dublin and Vienna, take around half of the top 20 spots. Rising prices are one reason. Another is that the European Central Bank raised interest rates six times in 2023 to tame inflation, which caused the euro to appreciate by 7% against the dollar. The three biggest climbers were Santiago de Querétaro and Aguascalientes in Mexico, and Costa Rica’s capital, San José. Moscow and St Petersburg fell furthest, plummeting by 105 places to 142nd and by 74 places to 147th, respectively. The rouble collapsed against the dollar because of Western sanctions on Russian oil and high levels of military spending.

Global food prices declined from record highs in 2022, the UN says. Except for two staples (AP) Global prices for food commodities like grain and vegetable oil fell last year from record highs in 2022, when Russia’s war in Ukraine, drought and other factors helped worsen hunger worldwide, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization said Friday. The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of commonly traded food commodities, was 13.7% lower last year than the 2022 average, but its measures of sugar and rice prices growing in that time. The drop in food commodity prices in 2023 comes despite a difficult year for food security around the world. Climate effects like dry weather, flooding and the naturally occurring El Nino phenomenon, combined with fallout from conflicts like the war in Ukraine, bans on food trade that have added to food inflation and weaker currencies have hurt developing nations especially.

Alaska Airlines Grounds Fleet of Boeing 737 Max 9 Jets After Midair ‘Incident’ (NYT) Alaska Airlines grounded its fleet of Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft on Friday after a flight operated by the airline made an emergency landing at Portland International Airport in Oregon that evening because of a midair pressure problem that passengers said blew out a chunk of the fuselage. The airline said that Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 had made a safe emergency landing carrying 171 passengers and six crew members at the Portland airport shortly after takeoff for Ontario, Calif. Within hours, the company said that it was grounding all 65 of its Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft until it could inspect each plane. Passengers on Friday’s flight described an unnerving experience during the 15 or so minutes in which the plane was returning to the airport. As yellow oxygen masks dangled above their heads, a powerful wind tore through a gaping hole that showed the night sky and the city lights below.

Three Years After Jan. 6, Trump’s Immunity Claims to Take Center Stage (NYT) Three years after a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol, former President Donald J. Trump will make his latest and potentially most consequential argument in the coming week for why he should not be held responsible for seeking to overturn the 2020 election. Impeachment proceedings, the House Jan. 6 committee’s inquiry and two separate criminal investigations have established a comprehensive set of facts about Mr. Trump’s deep involvement in overlapping efforts to remain in office despite having been defeated at the polls. But when—or even whether—he will ultimately face a trial on charges related to those efforts remains unclear. One of the most decisive factors in getting an answer to those questions will be the success or failure of the arguments his legal team plans to make on Tuesday in a federal appeals court in Washington. Mr. Trump’s lawyers are banking on a long shot, hoping to convince a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit that the Constitution affords him complete immunity from actions he undertook as president. The assertion, while untested in the courts, has the advantage to the former president of chewing up time in the service of his strategy of trying to delay any trial until after Election Day.

Experts warn that foreign armed forces headed to Haiti will face major obstacles (AP) An international armed force slated to fight violent gangs in Haiti this year will face multiple challenges including shifting gang allegiances and widespread corruption among police, politicians and the country’s elite, a new report warned Friday. The multinational force, which will be led by Kenya, has yet to deploy as it awaits a court ruling in the east African country. If given the green light, a small team of Kenyans is expected to arrive in Haiti early this year, with a total of up to 5,000 personnel eventually participating in the mission. “Major challenges lie in wait for the mission once it is on the ground,” the report by Belgium-based International Crisis Group stated. “Haiti’s gangs could ally to battle it together. Fighting in Haiti’s ramshackle urban neighborhoods will put innocent civilians at risk. Links between corrupt police and the gangs could make it difficult to maintain operational secrecy.” Some 300 gangs control an estimated 80% of the capital of Port-au-Prince, with their tentacles reaching northward into the Artibonite region, considered Haiti’s food basket.

Finland’s extreme cold freezes even boiling water thrown in the air (Reuters) Finland’s record low temperatures this week inspired a tourist on a trip to the Arctic to try a trick that had long intrigued him: throwing boiling water in the air when it’s extremely cold outside and seeing it turn into an instant cloud of icy dust. This is not something to try unless the temperatures are at a level of cold that most places on earth rarely, or never, see. He said he boiled water in his cabin, quickly brought it outside and threw it in an arc over his head—surviving the attempt without burns as the water immediately turned into an icy cloud that drifted away. The Nordic countries have seen extremely cold weather for the past few days, with the lowest temperature in 25 years at minus 44.3 C (-47.74°F) recorded on Friday in Enontekio, Finland.

India Wanted a Manufacturing Boom. Its Workers Are Back on the Farm Instead. (WSJ) The sudden lockdown in 2020 sent workers streaming from cities back to villages in rural India, an exodus that many thought would be an easy-to-reverse blip on India’s journey to becoming an industrialized nation. Instead, the ranks of India’s farmworkers have swelled by some 60 million over the past four years, a shift fueled in part by a food-welfare program that feeds hundreds of millions of people. Instead of seeing the masses move onto factory floors, India appears to be moving in the opposite direction.

Myanmar confirms a key northeastern city on border with China has been seized by an ethnic alliance (AP) Myanmar’s military government has acknowledged that it withdrew its forces from a key city on the northeastern border with China after it was taken over by an alliance of ethnic armed groups it has been battling for months. The fall of Laukkaing late Thursday is the biggest in a series of defeats suffered by Myanmar’s military government since the ethnic alliance launched an offensive Oct. 27. It underlines the pressure the government is under as it battles pro-democracy guerrillas in the wake of a 2021 military takeover as well as ethnic minority armed groups across the country. Ethnic armed organizations have battled for greater autonomy for decades, but Myanmar has been wracked by what amounts to civil war since the army seized power in February 2021 from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking nationwide armed resistance by pro-democracy forces.

Death toll reaches 100 as survivors are found in homes smashed by western Japan earthquakes (AP) The death toll from a major earthquake in western Japan reached 100 Saturday, as rescue workers fought aftershocks to carefully pull people from the rubble. Some survivors who had clung to life for days were freed from collapsed homes. A man was pulled out 72 hours after a series of powerful quakes started rattling Japan’s western coast. The number of missing was lowered to 211 as of Saturday, after it shot up two days ago.

US plans for more direct involvement in Mideast (Politico) Biden administration officials are increasingly worried that the war in Gaza will spark a wider protracted regional conflict and are beginning to draw up potential scenarios for more direct U.S. involvement. The military is drafting plans to hit back at Iran-backed Houthi militants who have been attacking commercial shipping in the Red Sea, according to three U.S. officials with direct knowledge of the discussions. That includes striking Houthi targets in Yemen, according to one of the officials. Intelligence officials, meanwhile, are coming up with ways to anticipate and fend off possible attacks on the U.S. by Iranian-backed forces in Iraq and Syria, according to one of the officials.

Heavy fighting continues as UN official says Gaza has become ‘uninhabitable’ (AP) At least six people were killed in an apparent Israeli airstrike on a home in the southern Gaza city of Rafah overnight. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have crammed into Rafah, one of the areas where Israel has told people to seek refuge. But Israeli forces continue to strike all parts of the besieged territory. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant says several thousand Hamas fighters remain in northern Gaza, where entire neighborhoods have been blasted into rubble. Heavy fighting is also underway in central Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis, where Israeli officials say Hamas’ military structure is still largely intact. Meanwhile, the United Nations’ humanitarian chief says Gaza has become “uninhabitable” and “a public health disaster is unfolding.”

An African gulag so ghastly that inmates risk death to escape (Washington Post) The tiny African nation of Eritrea is a sliver of fear wedged between Ethiopia and the Red Sea, a land that has known only a single strongman leader and the shadow of repression since independence three decades ago. Nothing exemplifies the reach and cruelty of the state today as much as its prison system. Eritrea is riddled with an appalling variety of prisons: Underground cells of crumbling concrete, and sweltering jails fashioned from converted metal cargo containers. Cages crammed with hundreds of men who must sleep on their sides like sardines, as their cellmates wearily stand to make room, and shallow holes scraped from the earth with log and dirt ceilings so low that inmates cannot stand up. The conditions, former prisoners recounted, are often so ghastly and the prison terms so open-ended that desperate inmates frequently attempt to escape, but those who try are often gunned down. Unlike in many other authoritarian countries, where people can frequently avoid prison by keeping their heads down and steering clear of politics, most Eritreans face the inevitability of detention if they refuse mandatory national service that can stretch for decades, mostly in a military infamous for leaving conscripts impoverished and brutalized. Prison time is so ubiquitous that one former detainee, Mulue Zerezgi, who was held for five years without ever learning the reason, said in an interview: “You know how you all talk about where you went to college in America? In Eritrea, we do that with prisons.”

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Effortless Travel: Navigating Zurich with Airport Transfer Services

Zurich, a city renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, attracts visitors from around the globe. To ensure a seamless transition from airport to destination, consider the convenience of airport transfer services in Zurich.

Zurich's busy international airport can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first time in the city. That's where airport transfer services come into play. These services, like the one offered by Zurich Car Service, eliminate the stress of navigating the airport and finding transportation.

Upon arrival, a professional driver will be waiting for you at the airport, ready to assist with your luggage and escort you to your chosen vehicle. With Zurich Car Service, you can expect a fleet of well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey to your destination.

Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group, airport transfer services in Zurich cater to diverse needs. Forget the hassle of waiting for taxis or figuring out public transportation; opt for the convenience and efficiency of airport transfer services for a hassle-free start to your Zurich adventure.