USA Today recently featured an article about passengers’ response to the seemingly lack of assistance provided by airline carriers following a near-disaster flight. Scott Bruni, a passenger of a plane that safely landed after its right wing had struck the runway, was frustrated by the lack of emotional support provided by the airline. The 1996 Aviation Disaster Family Assistance Act ensures that airlines provide assistance and resources to survivors and families of victims. However, the Act does not apply to incidents that do not involve a “major loss of life,” such as Bruni’s flight. Bruni and other passenger advocates feel as if airlines should be required to provide comfort and assistance following near-disaster flights. This position is not met without opposition. Most comments on USA Today’s article criticize Bruni for his proposition. Some comments include, “Just another example of how weak and spineless this once great country has become…” and “Do Americans need a wet nurse for our whole life? Please grow up, and be grateful that there was no disaster.” Many similar comments have been posted in reaction to the article illustrating a lack of sympathy toward those traumatized by near-disaster flights. To read the article and its comments, click here.