In response to the post above about TCAS, it is NOT required for flight in RVSM airspace. It is worth noting in the light of this accident that our (and I guess most other operators) TCAS can be out of service for up to 10 days before it is fixed under the current dispatch regulations. During that time the aircraft is still able to fly in RVSM airspace and as far as I know ATC do not have to be informed of the defect. I suspect we may see a reduction in the allowable time to perhaps 24 hours or 3 flights which I think is the time allowed for things like GPWS and flight recorders.
Lets hope that some good can come out of the ashes of this one and things will be a bit safer as a result.