New rules are essential to prevent further air disasters

Readers discuss airline safety, obesity, Iran and the next financial crisis

Airline authorities should not allow aircraft to takeoff when there is a heavy fog or poor visibility. Marwan Naamani / AFP

I refer to your article Iranian passenger plane crashes, killing as many as 66 (February 18). The Iranian plane crashed as a result of heavy fog, and the resultant death of 66 passengers is sad and painful. This plane crash was especially difficult to read about because it came on the heels of the recent crash of a Russian aircraft. Airline authorities should be encouraged not to allow aircraft to take off when there is a heavy fog or other issues with visibility. Such a move might avert further painful loss of life. 

K Ragavan, Bangalore

For some countries, there is an opportunity in crisis

At present, there are several parts of Europe and Asia, including the Arabian Gulf, that are emerging as hubs of huge investment, which will bring about stability to the world’s financial system. This will offer GCC countries rare opportunities to take advantage of this global shift in world finances. This shift is important for restructuring international relations following the problems that presented themselves almost a decade ago. The previous rules for governing economic relations were appropriate during the Cold War era, but are no longer suitable for the age of globalisation age, where new and influential economic powers are emerging. The next global financial and banking system will be strictly regulated and transparent. This in turn will allow new institutions to emerge and take over, laying the foundation for a new system in international finance. This will certainly create opportunities.

Samaoen Osman, South Africa

Iran should use its energies more wisely

I write in reference to your article, Iran applying "Hezbollah model" to other Arab countries: McMaster (February 17). Iran is home to a strange kind of politics that befuddles even seasoned political pundits.

Instead of strengthening its own house and financial position, it believes in creating problems all around the region, including in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and even Yemen.

Why does it do so, when it could use its energies to bring about peace in the Middle East?

Name withheld by request

To defeat obesity, we should attack sugar consumption

I write in reference to your article RAK residents to shed weight for cash (February 17). Severely limiting sugar and carbs is the key to keeping both obesity and diabetes at bay.

Mark Alexander, UK

Domestic workers should be afforded appropriate benefits

Your editorial, Domestic workers should be treated with proper respect (February 19), is timely. Expatriate maids and drivers are human beings too and should be accorded due consideration, appropriate financial benefits and medical benefits.

Raju Aneja, Dubai