WASHINGTON, DC (July 10, 2002) – Representative Calvert (R-CA) voted today for the Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act. H.R. 4635 authorizes a two-year test period when about 1,400 airline pilots would be armed with handguns in cockpits.
"Our first priority is the protection of American citizens from acts of terrorism," Rep. Calvert said. "By arming pilots we not only send a message to potential terrorists but we take another step in ensuring that the events of September 11 will never happen again."
The two-year trial period will begin when the first 250 pilots have been deputized to carry guns in the cockpit. The number of deputized pilots will be capped at two percent of the total workforce, approximately 1,400 pilots. Preference will be give to pilots who have formerly served in the military or law enforcement, but participation will be voluntary.
"Pilots have voiced nearly unanimous support for using firearms to protect their passengers, their planes and themselves," stated Rep. Calvert. "Re-enforced cockpit doors won't be installed in all planes until next year and air marshals may never ride on a majority of flights. Pilots deserve the right to protect our skies from terror as the last line of defense."
Before being deputized with firearms, pilots will undergo Transportation Security Administration (TSA) training. The TSA will be responsible for establishing protocols for carrying guns, including where they will be stored and what type will be used. When the two year test period ends, Congress will consider whether to continue, expand or terminate the program. Also included in the bill is a provision for flight attendant self-defense training.
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