NEED TO KNOW | RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Airplanes to glide into New Zealand to save fuel
Planes will glide into Auckland (New Zealand) International Airport later this week during special test landings that will reduce fuel use and emissions.
The approach method, which is said to be "a perfectly safe procedure," will allow planes to do a glide descent into the airport, with engines set on idle.
The trial landings are scheduled to begin Wednesday and will feature Air New Zealand and Qantas jets. Flights will be spaced to avoid other arrivals.
"We've chosen only a very small group of aircraft to participate. [These planes] typically arrive at times of the day other traffic is light," said airport spokesman Lew Jenkins.
Other airports, including LAX, may test the program in the future.
 This is a city known for great old architecture. And it's a desert spot and has a long-standing tradition of hospitality. |
 America's 20 most-visited national parks in 2009. |
Phoenix airport luggage thefts: 10 tips to protect your bag and belongings
Worried about your bag getting stolen in baggage claim? You've got plenty of company, espec...
Read more »
Users' Favorites
Taking restless Southern California on vacation
Los Angeles Times e-mail newsletter, delivered every Thursday
wherever it appears.