The missing submersible Titan raises concerns about the growing adventure tourism industry and its regulation.
The backdrop: Adventure tourism, which offers high-risk travel to wealthy customers, has witnessed several accidents and fatalities recently, such as 17 deaths on Mt. Everest this year.
* A massive search is now underway for the Titan, carrying four tourists and a crewmember on a trip to view the Titanic wreck.
Regulation controversy: Critics argue that the adventure tourism industry lacks proper government oversight, while others believe that regulation would kill the sense of adventure.
* The Titan, operated by OceanGate, gives tours mostly in international waters, avoiding most U.S. safety rules.
Rescue costs: The search and rescue operation, involving the U.S. Coast Guard and other countries’ vessels and aircraft, is costly and largely shouldered by taxpayers.
* OceanGate required passengers to sign liability waivers and is unlikely to be billed for the operation.
Comparisons and questions: The extensive search effort for the wealthy passengers aboard the Titan contrasts with the limited response to tragedies involving migrants, raising ethical questions on rescue priorities.
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