I hope this does not come off as argumentative, but yes, ValuJet was another airline that ran into trouble. Then too the FAA stood by and did nothing, that is until the inevitable occurred. Same indicators and risk factors were there as today: same players, same game plan, same bureaucratic government.

The FAA will conduct their media-induced investigation to satisfy their regulatory obligation and keep the heat off. They will then issue their findings and grant the company ample time to address their concerns. Management knows the drill and will do the obligatory minimum two-step to satisfy the requirement.

Yes, this has happened at other airlines, the difference being that others can survive a major mishap, Allegiant probably cannot