Roadtrip - You misunderstood me - I AM for arming the crews...but was also pointing out ways to alleviate the problems BEFORE these idiots board.
Apollo - you make good points. Perhaps the answer is to not use traditional 'firearms'...there are alternatives...Stun Guns, pepper spray, etc.
I agree that the FIRST line of defense must be at the airport, but some secondary, IN THE AIR, defense needs to be in place for when the first line is circumvented.