Wow! I'm genuinely sorry to hear about your friend, 33girl!
I got an email from USAirways the other day, and again today, assuring frequent flyers that they are implenting a new policy that covers total refunds for tickets, due to the War. I would suggest that your friend checks out
www.usairways.com and reads the statement on the "Peace of Mind" policy. I can't imagine that his situation wouldn't be covered by it.
As much as I try to use USAirways (I believe in supporting the local economy), it was that very statement that forced my decision to fly via USAirways next month, instead of another carrier.
honeychile