Hacker News Reader

> There are many other high-human density targets for terrorism (buses, trains, buildings, etc.) none of which require security checks. Why are airports / flying any different?

Because airplanes are giant 600mph flying bombs that can destroy large portions of major urban centers.

I am as dismayed by the disaster that is the TSA as you or anyone, but let's not totally lose sight of the plot here.

View on HN

There must be 1000s of places along train tracks in the US alone where a strategically-placed derailing device[1] could wreak the same, if not more, terror. I'm unconvinced planes pose a greater risk to life loss and that is the point IMO.

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derail

I seriously doubt a derailing train could take down an entire skyscraper.

I doubt an airplane ever has.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com