There was a lot of big news in the travel world this week. Northwest offered a fare sale, the CEO of Spirit Airlines put his e-foot in his mouth, and my personal battle with US Airways raged into its third week. This week also offered some great posts from bloggers and writers throughout the country, and as I always do on Friday, I’d like to take a minute to highlight some of my favorites:

If a China Airlines Plane Falls in the Forest Did it Really Exist?

It’s an event that has already sparked controversy about the Olympics, Communist propaganda, and airplane safety. A plane belonging to Taiwan-based China Airlines exploded on a runway in Okinawa. Luckily, passengers were able to escape before the plane was fully engulfed in flames.

The incident, of course, raised questions about China Airlines current and past safety standards. However, it’s what happened next that has truly caught people’s attention. The incident took place on Monday. On Tuesday, China Airline officials painted over the China Airlines name and logo on the burned plane.

Telstar Logistics has photos and video of the cover-up, as well as this fantastic quote from a Chinese Airlines official: We followed international procedures. We do not have detailed information.” By the way China Airlines has about half of the non-stops from the U.S. to China along with United Airlines and it will be taking thousands into China for the 2008 Olympics …

Jason Kidd, Continental No Longer Teammates

I saw over on Travel Guy that Continental Airlines has withdrawn its naming rights to the home of the New Jersey Nets and Devils. According to NJ.com, Continental maintained the right to withdraw if a major change were to occur at the stadium.

Well, the Devils are picking up their sticks and moving to Newark, and the Nets will most likely be gone soon, as well. Without big name sports in the arena, it doesn’t make much sense for Continental to keep its name on the marquee. For this season, though, it looks like the Nets will have a new name on their stadium. No news yet as to whether they will have an effective offense.

More Airline Employees = Better Service

I came across a very interesting post on Coach Class (part of Courant.com).

It breaks down employment statistics and the effect they seem to have on an airline’s performance. For instance, just as Northwest Airlines has been plagued by cancellations, they have been dealing with a shortage of employees (especially pilots).

Whether the number of employees directly affects customer service might not be truly clear, but as is pointed out in the piece, airlines that are suffering from severe public perception problems are also suffering from reduced employment. Generally speaking, a company is only as good as its employees, and if you don’t have those employees in place, you shouldn’t be surprised when things don’t go your way.

Hollywood in New York

Ever wanted to live your life like you’re in a movie? Jaunted has a great feature (Movie Set Travel) that allows you to do just that. This week, you can find out how to walk in the steps of Scarlett Johansson and the other stars of the Nanny Diaries. It’s a New York movie that wasn’t filmed in Toronto, so that alone makes it special. The post also provides a unique way to see one of the most traveled cities in the world.

Gotta Get Back in Time

Travel to space on Virgin Galactic not enough for you? Well, perhaps traveling back in time will give you what you’re looking for. While I can’t give tips or offer ticket deals on this one, I think it’s important for me to highlight all aspects of travel. Mysterious Universe has an intriguing piece on a new time travel theory that has scientists excited. Don’t pack your bags just yet, but if you’re a science or sci-fi buff, check out the article.

Have a Great Weekend!