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Greece’s Asylum Freeze Sparks Global Outcry Amid Crete Migrant Surge

In a move that has ignited fierce backlash from human rights organizations and the United Nations, Greece has passed legislation temporarily halting asylum applications from migrants arriving by sea from North Africa. The three-month suspension, approved by parliament with 177 votes in favor and 74 against, allows for expedited repatriation without prior identification. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended the measure as a “difficult but necessary decision” in response to a sharp rise in irregular arrivals, particularly from Libya to the island of Crete. Over 7,000 migrants have reached Crete and nearby Gavdos this year, straining local resources and prompting concerns from the tourism industry. Rights groups, including the International Rescue Committee, have condemned the ban as illegal and inhumane, warning it violates international and European law. The UNHCR echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the right to seek asylum is a fundamental human right regardless of how or wh...
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The Safest Seats on an Airplane: Where Should You Sit?

 

When booking a flight, we often consider factors like legroom, convenience, and views. But what about safety? Which seats offer the best chance of survival in an emergency? Let’s explore the data.

Air Travel Safety

First, it’s essential to recognize that air travel is remarkably safe. In 2019, there were approximately 70 million flights globally, resulting in only 287 fatalities. The odds of dying in a plane crash are about 1 in 205,552, compared to 1 in 102 for car accidents.

The Myth of the Back Seats

Contrary to popular belief, sitting at the back of the plane isn’t necessarily the safest option. The infamous 1977 Tenerife disaster, where a KLM Boeing 747 collided with a Pan Am 747, showed that passengers at the front survived better than those at the rear. Luck, impact distribution, and proximity to exits all play a role.

The Data

A 35-year study by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) sheds light on seat safety. Here’s what it found:

  • Middle Seats at the Back: These have the lowest fatality rate at 28%.
  • Aisle Seats in the Middle: These are the second-safest, with a 44% fatality rate.
  • Middle Seats on Either Side of the Aisle: These are the riskiest, with a 44% fatality rate.

Why the Middle Seats?

The middle seats at the back offer better survival odds because they benefit from the buffer provided by having people on either side. Additionally, sitting next to an exit row provides a faster escape route, assuming no fire blocks the way. Avoiding the front and wings (where fuel is stored) is also wise.

Remember, though, the chances of a plane crash are incredibly low. So, when you choose your seat, balance comfort, views, and safety. 


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