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.

News Release

Release #03.086
December 8, 2003

OTTAWA---The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) commends officials of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) and the RCMP for the discovery of explosive materials in a woman’s carry-on baggage in Edmonton yesterday.

"ALPA has long been a strong advocate of thorough and effective screening of passengers to prevent terrorists, hijackers or others from carrying on board aircraft items such as explosives or weapons that would pose a threat to the safety and security of aircraft, crew or passengers," said Captain Kent Hardisty, president of the Canada Board unit of ALPA.

"In this case, although many facts remain unknown, ALPA expects Canadian authorities to dispose of this case in a manner that demonstrates the seriousness of this event," said Captain Hardisty.

ALPA, the world’s oldest and largest union of airline pilots, represents 66,000 pilots at 42 carriers in Canada and the U.S. Its web site is http://www.alpa.org.

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ALPA CONTACT: Art LaFlamme (613) 569-5668