Arming Pilots Against Terrorism

 
    As Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Aviation, Rep. Mica advanced legislation to address a potential gap in our aviation security system.  H.R. 4635, the "Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act" was essential so that pilots could protect themselves and serve as the last line of defense on commercial passenger aircraft.
   This legislation became law on November 25, 2002, and allows pilots to volunteer for training and certification to carry firearms in their cockpits.  Participating pilots are required to prove their fitness for this responsibility, must use approved weapons and ammunition, and would only be permitted to use their firearms in the cockpits to prevent a terrorist hijacking.  Many pilots have requested this ability to defend themselves and their aircraft, and Mica has always believed strongly that they know what is best to ensure the security of our planes.

    Most pilots have a military background and have had previous weapons training. In fact, pilots were allowed to be armed during the hijacking era of the 1960s and 1970s, and they had this ability until July 2001. Currently twelve countries that fly into the United States allow their pilots to be armed as a protective measure.

     In addition to allowing commercial pilots to arm themselves, Rep. Mica believes that it is important to arm cargo pilots as well.  This authority was passed by Congress as part of the Vision 100 - Century of Aviation Act which reauthorized the Federal Aviation Administration and set national aviation policy through 2007.

    While initial classes of pilots have completed training and are now armed, much more needs to be accomplished.  Rep. Mica is firmly committed to ensuring that this program be allowed to succeed and adequately arm all pilots who are eligible to carry weapons on their planes.