Coast Guard Hearing Reveals Titan Submersible Concerns

During the Coast Guard hearings on the Titan submersible disaster, former employee Matthew McCoy revealed that CEO Stockton Rush claimed he would 'buy a congressman' to bypass regulatory scrutiny, specifically mentioning the intention to flag the vessel in the Bahamas to avoid U.S. oversight. McCoy testified about the lack of certification for the Titan and the absence of safety protocols, stating that he resigned after hearing Rush's alarming remarks. The hearings highlighted contrasting perspectives on OceanGate's operations, with some viewing the company's actions as reckless profit-seeking while others defended it as an adventurous spirit. Capt. Jamie Frederick of the Coast Guard expressed frustration that crucial information about the submersible's last moments was not shared, potentially affecting rescue efforts. Additionally, testimony revealed that the Titan had not undergone standard classification processes typical for deep-sea submersibles, raising serious concerns about its safety and design. The panel's findings continue to draw attention to the risks associated with deep-sea exploration and the responsibilities of companies operating in this field.