Release #: 15.19
May 21, 2015

ALPA Reiterates Importance of Securing the Cockpit through Secondary Barriers

New FAA Guidance Is Positive Step

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) applauded the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for issuing long-awaited guidance on the installation of cockpit secondary barriers on aircraft. The new Advisory Circular is a move forward in acknowledging that installing secondary barriers on passenger and all-cargo aircraft will add a necessary and significant layer of security for passengers and crewmembers.

“The recent guidance by the FAA on secondary barriers helps enhance the U.S. aviation industry’s multifaceted methods of securing the cockpit. However, until these effective, efficient, and inexpensive devices are mandatory, ALPA will continue to call on Congress to require secondary barriers on passenger and cargo aircraft,” said Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA president. “It is crucial that we take all active measures necessary to delay, deter, or entirely prevent efforts to enter the cockpit through an open door.”

Last month, the FAA issued Advisory Circular 120-110, which provides guidance for air carriers on compliance with flight deck security requirements. ALPA was an active participant in the development of the secondary barrier standards that are referenced in the FAA circular.

“Now that the FAA has issued this guidance, it is time for Congress to take action by providing clear direction to the FAA and the industry to ensure that secondary barriers are installed on U.S. passenger and cargo airliners,” added Canoll.

ALPA supports HR911/S911, which were introduced earlier this year and would require the installation of secondary barriers.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union, representing more than 51,000 pilots at 30 airlines in the United States and Canada. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @WeAreALPA.

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CONTACT: ALPA Media, 703-481-4440 or Media@alpa.org