[econjack]

Similarly, it is safer to fly now than it was on 9/10. Not because of government security measures, but because the passengers no longer have the illusion of safety and so will not allow a hijacking to occur.

I agree that the gov't has not done anything to make us safer...it simply too easy to gain access to the tarmac as a member of the cleaning crew, food service, or baggage handlers. However, I disagree with the statement that it's safer to fly now than before 9/11 due to anticipated actions by passengers. There has been very little to suggest that passengers will assume the same actions we saw on United 93. Indeed, surveys suggest that most Americans think they are safer now than before...a stupid conclusion.

[an amused spectator]

There has been very little to suggest that passengers will assume the same actions we saw on United 93.

Oh, please.

Just remember that it was illegal for a member of the flying public to interfere with a hijacking in progress on the morning of September 11, 2001.

Now, however, kicking in the face of a suspected hijacker will be met with polite or enthusiastic applause from your fellow passengers.