George Westinghouse significantly contributed to railroad transportation primarily through his invention of the air brake. His development of the air brake system, patented in 1869, greatly enhanced the safety and efficiency of trains by allowing them to stop more quickly and reliably. Prior to this invention, trains relied on manual brakes, which were less effective and more dangerous, especially when dealing with long trains or steep grades.
While Westinghouse also contributed to various aspects of transportation and engineering, including alternating current electrical systems, his invention of the air brake is the most notable contribution directly impacting railroad travel. Therefore, the correct statement regarding his impact on railroad transportation is:
His invention of air brakes made railroad travel safer and faster.
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