Locating engines on the wings is an engineering sound decision but is newsworthy in the event of an engine surge. The first surge I experienced as a passenger was on a 727. With a series of bangs and resultant yaw, I saw most passengers sit up and take notice but then go back to whatever they were doing. I, however, noticed we descended for several minutes before continuing to our destination. I realized what had happened and assumed our descent would result in an unscheduled landing as we were over an hour from our destination. I had a long wait prior to my next flight so I was last to leave, asked a flight attendant to check with the captain. He confirmed a surge, needed to shut down the right engine, continued to destination on the remaining 2. The secret is to keep the flames out of view of the passengers and all is well.