ALPA's Communications Department provides information and support for news media inquiries. An ALPA communications representative can be reached in the Herndon, Va. office at (703) 481-4440.

Release #01.126

November 16, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C.---The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), is extremely pleased with, and fully supports, the congressional conference committee’s proposed National Airline Security Bill, which is expected to be passed and sent to the President by day's end.

ALPA’s president, Capt Duane Woerth, said, "ALPA’s members applaud the proposals for enhanced aviation security. The terms of this proposal represent the culmination of 20 years of this Association’s working for more secure skies, as well as our nearly around-the-clock effort on security issues since the tragic events of September 11."

Airline pilots applaud the proposed measures, which would authorize some of the most urgent priorities for strengthening airline security.

• Federalizing the process for screening passengers and related security responsibilities will now provide the highest level of security, making these practices uniform and consistent throughout the nation’s air-transportation system. All screening personnel must be U.S. citizens, have a high school diploma, and be English-speaking. Additionally, as part of the nation’s civil service system, screeners will now earn respectable compensation.

• A significant increase in Federal Air Marshals will greatly enhance onboard security and act as a deterrent against hijackers planning to take control of an aircraft.

• Cockpit doors will be strengthened and fortified and will include locking mechanisms.

• Firearms will be permitted in the cockpit with the required pilot training and subject to government and airline approval.

"The items contained in this proposal should greatly boost the public’s confidence to return to the skies for travel," said Capt. Woerth. "This new legislation will yield the most significant enhancements to security aboard airplanes and in airports in many years," he added.

ALPA, the world’s oldest and largest professional organization of airline pilots, represents 67,000 airline pilots at 47 airlines in the U.S. and Canada. Its web site is cf.alpa.org.

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ALPA Contacts: John Mazor, Ron Lovas (703) 481-4440