R04stb33f...... I do not have the skills and the knowledge to fly a modern airliner. That's because I am not a pilot.......not for the want of trying.However, I am NOT faint hearted when it comes to flying and I am NOT put off by technical jargon, in fact I try hard to understand it (because I am interested). I have total faith in the guys at the driving wheel and NEVER second guess their actions, decisions, or whatever. My question is in relation to safety. I have spent 12 years in the pharmaceutical industry, in the front line where chemical synthesis is induced and controlled in reactors. I can confirm through first hand experience that cost cutting, both in terms of continuous (or lack of)operator training and maintenance has a direct effect on safety. My suggestion is that the same may apply to the "cash strapped"airline industry.