Originally Posted by
United737522
US Airways, who through no fault of their own, flew an A320 into a flock of birds. The well skilled pilots employed by US made decisions that saved the lives of all on board. US then went above and beyond what they were obligated to do, and gave pax $5000 and 3 therapy sessions. Not to mention free stuff and hired specialist to help restore their possessions. I'm sorry their little 4 year olds, one of which was 3 at the time, need therapy. I'm not going to judge, but I don't what kind of therapy a 4 year old needs. Can 4 year olds even comprehend what happened? Anyway, no matter what US does, it's not going to please everyone. In this case, I bet these people would never be pleased.
If the passenger in question had broken her ankle, there wouldn't be much question that US Air would --happily-- pay for the related hospital, doctor and physical therapy costs. Mental health isn't remarkably different. Children experience trauma and stress, and while we may think that it is probably exacerbated by the reaction of the parents, it is still real. If the child can't sleep alone amy more, becomes incontinent, and is inconsolable if mom is out of sight, then therapy may indeed be just what is needed.
And, even if they have a zero-deductible insurance policy, the insurer probably would expect to claim the expense against US Air.
None of this is to question the skill of the US Air crew, or the safety of the plane with respect to bird strikes.