Legislation to Arm Pilots Gains Momentum in the Senate

FOR RELEASE: October 4, 2001

Washington, DC: Congressman Ron Paul, who introduced legislation two weeks ago that would permit airline pilots to carry firearms in the cockpit, now has support for his proposal in the Senate. Senator Bob Smith of New Hampshire recently introduced "The Airline Safety Act of 2001," a bill that is substantially similar to Paul's "Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001."

"The American people know that pilots must be able to defend themselves, their passengers, and their aircraft," Paul stated. "Commercial pilots overwhelmingly favor having the choice to carry a gun, as evidenced by the recent congressional testimony of several pilot union representatives. Congress, the administration, and the FAA should defer to the judgment of those pilots- the men and women actually responsible for our safety in the skies every day. After the tragic events of September 11th, we can never again risk leaving pilots defenseless in the air."

Both Congressman Paul and Senator Smith may seek to add their bills as amendments to larger anti-terrorism bills circulating in both chambers. The House is scheduled to vote on Paul's amendment next week.

"The flying public deserves to have this legislation in place immediately," Paul concluded. "Common sense safety measures need to be enacted to bolster confidence in air travel and get the nation flying again."