[greglepore]

Gordner, appreciate the input. I'd have to wonder if there isn't some cockpit override available for this event. I'm sure one of the Airbus drivers here could provide some insight.

This has nothing to do with Airbus vs Boeing though. The only plausible theory at this point is something that incapacitated the crew after they were able to dial in an emergency descent. Probably sudden decompression. It seems that at fl380 you'd have about 15 functional seconds, and it's not easy to get the mask on and functional in those conditions. There are plenty of Boeing incidents of decompression, including some where the windscreen departed the aircraft. Imagine have 15 seconds to try to get a mask on with a 350 kt below zero wind in your face.