1 ‘Air travel creates more problems than benefits.’ Is this a fair comment?

The recent spreading of Swine flu to almost half of the hemisphere makes me wonder if air travel is to be blamed. Globalization and advancement of air travel have literally connected any two parts of the earth with just hours of flight. This is in contrast to the months of sea journey in the past. However, this convenience in air travel has brought about another noticeable consequence, spreading of virus from one hemisphere to the other can occur in merely hours. This then begs the question if it is fair to comment that Air travel creates more problems than benefits. In my opinions, I think it is a rather unfair statement.

Firstly, let us all not forget that without air travel, it is almost impossible to visit another country which is far from us such as United States of America. This link between two countries has essentially brought about an exchange of knowledge, culture, talents and goods. For instance, in term of tourism, the visit to another country provides an opportunity for cultural and knowledge exchange. Likewise, import and export of goods, from and to almost any parts of the world, are permitted with the help of air travel.

We must not forget about the revenue that is generated along with air travel too. This revenue has formed a significant part in today’s economy. Just recently, I chanced upon a report which mentioned that air travel and tourism have brought billions of dollars into US economy. Swine flu epidemic has also clearly shown the monetary contribution of our air travel sector to the economy. As our air travel sector has been significantly affected by it, there is an obvious decline in leisure air travel. Consequently, it in turn affects the global economy.

This brings me neatly to my next point that of whether the air travel is a major culprit for the spread of flu viruses. Just like any other mode of transportation, air travel can provide a mode of “transportation” for viruses too. However, the chances can be greatly reduced with cooperation of individuals and better hygiene practices. I am sure guidelines such as avoiding travelling or wearing a mask when unwell are not new to anyone.

Another might argue that air travel increases the crime rate in visiting country. Again, this voice back to individual‘s morality. Putting the blame on air travel for the increased crime rate is similar to pin pointing finger at cars when there is an increase in car accidents. Certainly, it is clear to everyone that it is the end user who should be blamed.

As a conclusion, I will not deny that air travel can worsen the already occurring problem with evidence shown earlier. However, with better guidelines and precautions in air travel, this problem should not pose a big issue to us. The benefits of air travel certainly outweigh the problems which accompanied it. Likewise, there is little evidence to show that air travel creates more problems than benefits with individual’s efforts and cooperation. Hence, I still feel that it is a rather unfair comment.

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