Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act

The Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act proposes a two-year pilot program to train and deputize volunteer commercial pilots as Federal Flight Deck Officers. Under this program, qualified pilots would be authorized to carry firearms and use force, including lethal force, specifically to defend the cockpit against criminal violence or hijacking.

For the traveling public, this bill aims to add a layer of security to commercial flights by ensuring that trained, armed personnel are present in the cockpit. To support this mission, the bill also mandates enhanced self-defense and situational training for flight and cabin crews, requires a study on providing flight attendants with non-lethal weapons, and explores ways to better utilize other armed federal law enforcement officers who are already traveling on commercial flights. Additionally, the legislation provides legal protections for airlines and pilots regarding the use of these firearms, while establishing oversight measures to revoke credentials in cases of negligence.