5 things to know for Jan. 31: Plane collision, Confirmation hearings, Pain medicine, Japan sinkhole, FireAid benefit concerts | CNN

While America retains a gold standard for airline safety, there are stresses on the US air travel system that have been apparent in a series of near tragedies in recent years. Aviation experts have warned that some safety margins have been squeezed by a shortage of air traffic controllers and congestion in the airspace over many major cities.

Here’s what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day.