The Herald reports that the world-wide airline industry has recommended revisions to the compensation system for injuries and deaths resulting from international airplane accidents. The Warsaw Convention of 1929 limits damages to $75,000 per person unless "intentional or reckless" conduct on the airlines' part is established. Aviation companies concede that the $75,000 limit is too low and encourages lawsuits, so the industry is considering eliminating the universal cap and allowing countries to set their own guidelines.

For more than 66 years the aviation industry has benefited from a system where quick and equitable settlements have been the exception to the rule. The airlines should be applauded for pushing change.

There should be no limits on compensation payable by U.S. airlines. A limit on claims would do little to deter airlines from measures that sacrifice safety and increase profit margins.