I think it's more likely that they're probing to determine how many flights tend to have air marshalls, how many air marshalls per flight, and what their procedures are. One or more Muslims on the plane pulls this stunt and gets arrested. Their partners keep a low profile, don't get involved, and simply watch and report back.
That sounds sickeningly possible. I swear, once I retire I will NEVER fly again.
54 posted on 08/25/2006 3:10:25 PM PDT by American Quilter
(You can't negotiate with people who are dedicated to your destruction.)