Pure-play defense contractors, large and small, are receiving a steady stream of inquiries about their ability to dramatically increase production of weapon systems, as well as other items necessary to support Operation Enduring Freedom.

Rationally, we all know the airline industry eventually will rebound; it always has, following a major shock to the system. But that day seems like a distant prospect, given the wretched earnings environment that has descended across most of the industry and is likely to persist for a protracted period.

Textron Inc.'s stock was slammed last Wednesday, plummeting 10.20 a share. It closed at a new 52-week low--32.80--having lost nearly 25% of its value.

The numbers are staggering: If you're between the ages of 45 and 55, your heart has beat approximately one and one-half to two billion times.

On Sept. 11, 2001, the day terrorists turned commercial transport aircraft into weapons of destruction and America turned itself into a no-fly zone, U.S. airlines put their economic problems aside and focused their efforts on getting back in the air again. But resuming operations is a much taller order than suspending them.

The death and ruin rained on U.S. military and commercial interests last week herald more of the same, because mass-casualty terrorism is a cheap and simple way for an enemy to take America to war without frontally engaging its superpower might, international security experts agree.

Aviation Week's Airline 25 stock index continued to lose ground last week, dropping 2.7% from the prior week and is off nearly 22% year-to-date.

The moment had arrived. Suddenly the normally courteous and gentle Tracy Lyznicki became the flight attendant from hell.