We examine whether penalties for long ground delays with passengers kept on board (i.e., lengthy tarmac delays) deter airline violations or are simply treated as a cost of doing business. Using severe-weather cases as a quasi-natural experiment, we compare penalized and non-penalized airlines with difference-in-differences methods. We find modest and inconsistent improvements. Deterrence is weaker when penalties are small relative to airlines’ net incomes, suggesting that some carriers may view them as routine business costs.

Physical touch may be an important evolutionary tool to help manage social tension and keep the peace.  

That is according to a new study led by Durham University in the UK, analysing behaviours of our closest ape relatives, the bonobos and chimpanzees. 

Researchers surveyed more than 500 Salt Lake County residents and found that 69% are concerned about the shrinking lake, with habitat loss and dust-related health risks emerging as the top worries. The study also found that concern varies significantly by age, gender, race and ethnicity, birthplace, and people's personal experiences with the lake. Researchers say the findings show how lived experience and background can shape views about rapid, environmental changes, and that policies for the Great Salt Lake will gain stronger public support if they are framed as actions needed to protect wildlife or other key values rather than actions to stabilize water levels.