Very glad that this was not a Big One. There was a EK training video made that showed how to fly RNAV / RNP approaches on to 13L/R @ JFK. Ludicrously complex and involved secondary flight plan swap @ low altitude. I commented on the complexity during RTGS and I may have just talked to the wall. To be frank, life was simpler flying a Carnarsie VOR and look for the lights. JFK ATC? Hmmm...I'll take the 5th on them as I have been the victim of their ill - tempered ire in the past but hardly a factor here.
A combination of EK / Airbus rocket science hard wired to rigid sops with a 'fear' of doing the wrong thing and subsequent tea, no biscuits and lashings of warning letters. Oh and a 12 hour tiring flight, inadequate rest facilities, punishing rosters, jet lag etc... Enough swiss cheese for you?