This tragedy begs the question....."How does one say "No!" to a customer?"
Sometimes it is very, very, difficult....and will probably end your employment.
I did ride in the cabin of a Sikorsky S-76 while two Iraqi pilots I had given Conversion training to drove us around for an hour. It was done as a sign of confidence to them regarding their demonstrated performance during training. Actually, it was probably one of the least wise things I have done in my life. Now if my ex-wife had been available.....hmmmmmmm!