We’ve been keeping track of the various news stories affecting the transportation, supply chain and logistics industries. Here is a quick look at some of the most talked about topics:
- Growing Demand for Drones. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is issuing permits for the commercial use of drones while it still develops rules for their use. The agency has approved over 700 permits, but won’t have rules in place until next year.
- Trucker Saves County Jailer. Clinton Blackburn won a Carnegie Medal for his efforts to save a jailer who was being assaulted by a prisoner in the backseat of the sheriff’s car. The Carnegie Medal is awarded to men and women who risk their lives while saving or attempting to save the lives of others. Both men sustained minor injuries but recovered fully.
- ATA Endorses Commercial Driver Act. The American Trucking Association applauds Sen. Fischer for introducing legislation that would authorize pilot programs for 18- to 21- year-old drivers. (See why 3.4 million drivers isn’t enough for today’s economy.)
- New Container Equipment Cost Low. Low material costs and stable demand have driven the price of new container equipment down to record lows. The container equipment index price took a 10-year low in June, falling below $1,750 per CEU equivalent.
- Truck Driver Turnover Rates Fall. The ATA reported the truck driver turnover rate fell to a four-year low in the first quarter among larger fleets and declined 12% at larger and smaller fleets alike. The driver shortage is becoming more significant and trucking companies are getting serious about attracting drivers.
