As for Venus, the Soviets were landing probes there back in the 1970s, which managed to return data and pictures for nearly an hour before going offline. I don't think it is too far fetched that we could build more powerful heat shields so that a surface visit could last for a much longer period of time. Sigh! Please go back and re-read my post.
"(with the exception of Venus)"
I see.. you're not a Venus doubter.
I'd like to see another probe to Venus. I doubt the air bag method would be feasible there since they'd likely melt before the probe ever hit the ground.