Just to add some perspective to the it can't happen here anymore, I've flown with a pilot at Eagle on the ATR who was literally afraid of clouds. Most often he called in sick. The CP's office and Pro-Standards were well aware.

We've had captains out of Miami lie about their age flying to well past 65. This person was also responsible for a few items added to the checklist. His approach briefings went as follows, this airplane, that runway. Any questions?

I've flown down on the rock were it was mostly a good experience until the crew speaks Spanish when you don't and you literally have no idea what's going on. That includes ATC communications.

I haven't read the book, and I'm pretty sure AA73 didn't either. But please don't think for a moment that things have changed too much.

TC