A. The “Gomel” blessing is recited for being saved from 4 general types of danger. 1) overseas travel 2) captivity/prison 3) seriously ill health/operation 4) travel through uncivilized place ; or any near brush with death. Although air travel today is common and safe, since the verse (Psalms 107) mentions these specific dangers, it is still customary to say the Gomel blessing. It is only recited with a minyan, and preferably while the Torah is present. Everyone responds with Amen, and “as you were blessed in this, may you be blessed with much good always”.
