WASHINGTON � The Homeland Security bill that passed Congress last November included a provision to allow pilots to carry guns in the cockpit, but before that happens the Transportation Security Administration is making sure pilots are properly vetted before they are handed any firepower.


On Wednesday, TSA officials gave their chief Admiral James M. Loy recommendations that are expected to serve as guidelines for training and deputizing pilots to carry weapons.

One of their first recommendations is to make sure pilots are safe and sane. They are insisting that any pilot who signs on for the five-day training program sponsored by TSA be given a psychological exam and background check.

The agency has until Tuesday to issue the new rules for the program. The pilots unions and air carriers are expected to comment on the recommendations before they are given the final seal of approval.

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Kind of makes me wonder if I am more afraid of the threat (terrorism) or the solution?

As the first US commercial airline pilots prepare to tackle potential hi-jack threats by carrying guns in the cockpit, their union has criticized government plans to restrict their access to weapons while they are on duty.

The authorities are planning to train the first 48-strong volunteer group of pilots to carry Smith & Wesson semi-automatic guns on the flight deck as part of new in-flight security measures. The pilots undergo physical and psychological tests as part of the program.

However, the Transport Security Administration has recommended that while armed crew members would be allowed to carry a pistol in a holster in the cockpit there would be certain restrictions. The TSA wants the weapons to be carried in a "lock box" secured in a flight bag or other container at all other times.

The Airline Pilots Association argues that its members need to have greater control over the weapons as they "would be the last line of defense against terrorism."

ALPA president Captain Duane Woerth said: "In passing the legislation, Congress mandated a program that would deputize airline pilots as federal Law Enforcement Officers. Our members, most of whom have military and/or law enforcement backgrounds, will readily accept LEO training. However, they demand a TSA program that reflects their responsibilities, as well as their skills and professionalism.

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