Very true TW but its not the technology thats killing people its the lack of basic flying skills and sound judgement that is the current problem. Look at AF447, AF in Toronto, Turkish Airlines in Amsterdam, Colgan, all the runway overruns occurring. It is the state of technology that have allowed the rule makers to reduce the experience levels worldwide, a problem that is only going to get worse over the next decade as the demand for air travel increases. Combined with older pilots leaving the system because age does indeed weary then the concern about the increased likelihood of a catastrophic accident is a valid one. Stats are fine as an interpretation of the past but I wouldn't be relying on them to forecast the future.
BTW Sunny thanks for your summary of the way Governments work. It highlights just how hamstrung by the system is the good work of the Senate .
