Missiles are now the biggest killer of airline passengers (wsj.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the increasing threat of missiles to airline passengers, with missiles now being the biggest killer of airline passengers. The comments reveal that this is partly due to the increased use of air defense systems and the risk of civilian casualties. The discussion also touches on the use of drones and their potential to gather intelligence, as well as the challenges of distinguishing between drones and other aircraft. The topic of government response and responsibility in addressing these issues is also explored.

Main themes

• Air defense systems
• Drone surveillance
• Civilian casualties
• Government response
• National security
• Aviation safety

What commenters say

• The use of air defense systems increases the risk of civilian casualties, and the damage potential of switching to a more aggressive posture can have unintended consequences.
• Drones can be used to gather high-quality intelligence, but their use also raises concerns about privacy and national security.
• The government has a responsibility to provide answers and enforce laws to prevent vigilantism and speculation about unknown drones and other security threats.
• The Posse Comitatus Act does not prevent the US military from using force to defend US soil or airspace, but rather restricts their engagement in civil law enforcement.
• The threat posed by drones is often exaggerated, and many reported sightings can be explained by misidentification of other aircraft or natural phenomena.
• The use of deadly force against drones is not a new development, and the military and police have always had the option to use lethal force in certain situations.
• The government's failure to provide clear answers about unknown drones can create a vacuum that is filled by speculation and misinformation.
• Outlawing drones or shooting them down is not a practical or justifiable solution, and would likely be met with resistance from drone owners and enthusiasts.