This is a dark day for us in the aviation industry and especially in Dubai. There is a degree of camaraderie amongst expats who are in the same industry and the aviation industry in Dubai is no exception. Any of us could have been standing beside any of the crew whilst stood in the queue in Spinneys a few days ago without even knowing it. The same could be said with any of the passengers whilst waiting in a queue in one of the malls. In Dubai, you don't need to go far to find someone who may know one of the crew or knows someone who did. When viewing it in this context, our fragility as simple humans is highlighted.
Can I also say a big Bravo to my fellow Gulf based aviation professionals for keeping this thread respectful and dignified, which is of course how it should be. Some of the 'hot air' that has been posted elsewhere on this website, in connection to this accident is crass in nature, with individuals commenting on matters that they appear to be poor qualified to do so.
My condolences to the loved ones and friends of those that perished.