Originally Posted by SilentKnight

Just what I was thinking, too.

It wasn't the airline's fault the plane flew into a flock of birds. The passengers should thank their lucky stars they had a great pilot who pulled off a heroic water landing.

Sure, reimburse them for their lost possessions and airfare - maybe throw in a little extra as a goodwill gesture.

I think $5k each was generous on the part of the airline...given the circumstances. Only assholes would pursue an additional lawsuit.