[sungod]

another note: I understand what you people are saying about decompression, but there are plenty of other faults in this line of logic. As far as I know, modern commercial airplane design does not incorporate steps for protecting electrical, computer, hydraulic, etc systems from bullets. I will say that I like the idea of specially trained civilians better than letting any CCW permit bring one on board, but as I said before, these terrorists would likely just get certified like you or I would, and you would end up with a shootout in the air.

[FreePaul]

...modern commercial airplane design does not incorporate steps for protecting electrical, computer, hydraulic, etc systems from bullets.

Surprise! The design doesn't "incorporate steps for protecting" the aircraft from crashing against buildings either. Given the two choices I'll take a chance on a stray bullet.