Release #01.98
September 17, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C.---Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta has named Capt. Duane Woerth, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) to one of two high-level industry Rapid Response Teams to deal with security issues in the wake of last week’s terrorist attack.

Joining Woerth on the team are Robert W. Baker, vice-chairman of American Airlines, and Robert A. Davis, former vice president of engineering and technology for Boeing Co.

A priority for the aircraft Rapid Response Team, which was announced Sunday by Secretary Mineta, will be to focus on cockpit access. One of ALPA’s top priorities is strengthening cockpit doors in airliners. The union also is working to develop new cockpit procedures, defensive measures and training to reflect the new type of terrorist threat.

The second task force will address airport security issues.

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ALPA Contacts: John Mazor, Anya Piazza (703) 481-4440