American shipping industry struggles with outdated fleet due to 'America-first' policy.
Tragic events of El Faro sinking highlight challenges faced by aging American ships.
Deep dives
American Shipping Industry Challenges
The American shipping industry faces challenges as it struggles to remain competitive on a global scale. Despite the Jones Act's requirement for cargo moving between American ports to travel on American-made ships, the country's fleet carries less than 1% of the world's ocean freight. This industry, once a pioneer, now lags behind global competitors, posing significant obstacles for American shipping companies.
The Tragic Story of the El Faro
The podcast delves into the tragic story of the El Faro, a 40-year-old American flagship that sank in a hurricane. The episode reveals the dramatic events leading up to the ship's demise, including crew members' realization of the impending danger and the captain's controversial decision-making. The haunting tale sheds light on the challenges faced by aging American ships in a demanding maritime environment.
Human Stories Within the Shipping Industry
The personal narratives of individuals within the shipping industry provide a glimpse into their lives and hardships. Through encounters with sailors like Dirk and steward Dwain, listeners gain insight into the dedicated professionals who navigate these vessels. Captain Tony Motion's intimate reflections on loss, duty, and the realities of the trade highlight the human side of an industry governed by complex economic and regulatory dynamics.
American companies pioneered container shipping, but now the ocean freight business is dominated by foreign firms. Thanks to the Jones Act, a 1920 law, all cargo between American ports must be carried on American-made ships, so we do still have a fleet. But the ships are old and outdated. In episode five, we explore the tragic consequences of this "America-first" trade policy, beginning with the El Faro, which sank in October 2015.
