As N38OUA mentioned, there are various types of arrestor beds which stop aircraft in a remarkably short distance. Although the initial cost is considerable it must be balanced against the cost of an airframe and, more importantly, human life. They have a considerable lifespan and when an accident does occur, only the affected section is replaced, thus reducing cost, with negligible effect on stopping performance.
I would like to see them at most airports, certainly all major ones, but this wont happen until further incidents/accidents occur, such as Air France, Toronto, and the media decide to make it their "cause of the moment". The following links show some great pictures of the many different airports that have these facilities, mainly American, and the company involved are called ESCO.
http://www.panynj.gov/AboutthePortAu...emas_photo.JPG
www.esco-usa.com/com/instal.html
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