"Terrorists will think twice about trying to hijack our planes if they know an armed pilot is on the other side of the cockpit door," Lucas said.  "If pilots are properly trained to use a firearm, they should be allowed to protect themselves and their passengers."

The bill allows for qualified airline pilots to have guns in the cockpit of their planes.  After three years, the Transportation Security Administration will issue a report to Congress to determine its effectiveness.

"We've already taken unprecedented steps to improve aviation security," Lucas said. "But we need to give properly-trained pilots the ability to be the last line of defense in case the 
unthinkable happens again." 

The pilots who choose to participate must undergo TSA-approved training before being deputized to carry a gun.  The administration will establish protocols for the type of gun pilots will carry, where the gun is stored, and the pilot interaction with the air marshals.  The bill also requires separate self-defense training for flight attendants.

"Pilots want to be armed and passengers want their pilots to be armed," Lucas said.  "This is a necessary step to ensure the safety and security of the flying public."

The bill passed the House today by a vote of 310 to 113, and goes to the Senate next for a vote.