Tragedy struck on March 26, 2024, when a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, resulting in what the US Coast Guard classified as a major marine casualty. Among the presumed dead is Miguel Luna, a husband and father of three, who left for work on the bridge but never returned home. Gustavo Torres, Executive Director of CASA, expressed grief over the loss of Luna, a longtime member of their community,
María del Carmen Castellón, Luna’s wife, expressed devastation over the uncertainty surrounding his fate. Colleague Jesús Campos echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the human toll of the tragedy.
After more than 14 hours of search and rescue efforts, authorities suspended operations, leaving questions about additional victims unanswered. Two workers were rescued, one in serious condition, shedding light on the magnitude of the disaster. The collision occurred after the container vessel, DALI, experienced a total blackout, hindering its ability to navigate. Despite efforts by the ship’s pilot to avert disaster, the vessel struck the bridge. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) initiated an investigation into the incident, with initial damage estimates exceeding $500,000. As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath, authorities seek to determine the cause of this tragic event.
What Your Typical Day Was Like During ‘The Golden Age’ Of Commercial Flying
From the 1950s to the 1970s, flying was a luxurious experience. Aviation historian Graham M. Simons recalls it as a time of elegance, with spacious seats and stylish crew. Passengers dressed up, adding to the sense of occasion.
Flight options were limited and costly. A round-trip ticket from Chicago to Phoenix in 1955 cost $138, about $1,200 today. Aviation expert Guillaume de Syon notes that flying was four to five times more expensive than now, making it accessible only to the wealthy.
Airlines served lavish meals with delicacies like caviar and foie gras. Some even hosted fashion shows on board. Former flight attendant Suzy Smith remembers serving beluga caviar during flights.
Flying felt like a cocktail party. Passengers dressed formally, and relaxed security allowed unusual items like pet birds in shoeboxes. This freedom contributed to a laid-back atmosphere.
Pan Am epitomized luxury and glamour. Former employee Joan Policastro recalls star-studded flights with exclusive lounges.
Flight attendants had strict appearance standards, wearing high heels, white gloves, and corsets. Airlines imposed rules on appearance, hair length, weight, and marital status.
Despite its end, the Golden Age of flying is fondly remembered. Groups like World Wings, former Pan Am employees, cherish memories of when flying was an adventure synonymous with luxury and excitement.
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