Originally Posted by
cbire880
I really wonder if another major terrorist attack would have the same effect. We have become accustom to the concept and passengers are prepared for the possibility of defending the aircraft. Short of an extended government induced shutdown, I think we might not see the same shock and disbelief if it happened again. I would throw out there that international flying would see the pain, but domestics would remain relatively untouched.
True for a hijacking, because PAX and crew are empowered to deal with any hijacking using any means. Most of us don't feel too helpless regarding hijackers today...most able-bodied types mentally rehearse their hijack response every time they fly.
However the coordinated destruction of multiple airliners using explosives would still be very bad, because that would play on our fear of things we cannot control. Even a failed attempt could be devastating to the industry if explosives got onboard aircraft and the entire system was grounded again. I sure hope that government and airline leaders have plans for rapidly restoring airline service following a major terrorist attack...another week on the ground would set us back ANOTHER 7 years.