Perhaps we have our wires crossed, but when I referred to the airline industry, I was referring to it as it pertained to the pilot profession.

That said, you can have a strong military protecting a free market society, and still have an airline industry, that from a pilots perspective, is a a horrible place to work. Need proof? Ask anyone who ever flew night freight for a less than reputable company. The sad part is, that's where I see this profession heading.