Sydney Ember, an economics correspondent for The New York Times with a focus on aviation, reveals startling findings about near-collisions involving U.S. passenger planes—happening far more frequently than the public is aware. She discusses the alarming trend of close calls as air traffic returns to pre-pandemic levels and critiques the strained safety systems in aviation. Ember also highlights the critical shortage of air traffic controllers and the risks posed by inexperienced personnel, emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety protocols.

Sydney Ember, a business reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into Boeing's recent manufacturing woes. She discusses the alarming failure of an Alaska Airlines flight that raised safety concerns and the implications for Boeing's reputation. Ember also highlights the troubling oversight in the production of the Boeing 737 MAX 9, including missing bolts. The podcast sheds light on the fraught relationship between Boeing and the FAA and explores how profit-driven motives have overshadowed engineering excellence, leaving safety in question.