4.3 Aviation Security: TSA Layers of Security "Hardened Cockpit Doors"

4.3 Aviation Security: TSA Layers of Security

 

 Hardened Cockpit Doors 

Since the tragic and infamous terrorist attacks of September 11th 2001, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)  has worked diligently to provide measures to keep all members and users of the Aviation Industry safe. numerous bills and new procedures were put in place after the attacks, learning from past experiences thus making efforts in making airports, border control and commercial flying safer. 

One of the most significant and visible layer of security implemented was Hardened Cockpit Doors, these doors would have been instrumental in preventing the terrorist from having access to the flight deck and gaining control of the airplane for  their malicious intentions, turning the aircraft into a vehicle of destruction. The Hardened Cockpit doors work with secure keypads, the codes are change regularly and only the current crew members of the flight know the code. 

 As of today, Hardened Doors are installed in every aircraft with 30 or more passengers, but many believe that there is still room for improving operational safety, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) has been proposing an added layer of security by installing a secondary barrier which resembles a gate, this would help pilots to have access to the lavatory and the rest of the crew without putting the safety of the flight at risk. 

 Another step being taken to further increase safety is a Bill Sponsored by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), that would require the installation of Hardened Cockpit Doors in all cargo airplanes, something that was overlooked back when initial actions were taken. 

Reference

ALPA. (2022). It’s Time to Secure the Flight Deck - ALPA. Www.alpa.org. https://www.alpa.org/advocacy/flight-deck-barriers 

Bill Calls for Cockpit Doors on All-Cargo Flights. (2020, March 13). Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2020/3/bill-calls-cockpit-doors-all-cargo-flights

Schaper, D. (2021, September 10). It Was Shoes On, No Boarding Pass Or ID. But Airport Security Forever Changed On 9/11. NPR.org. https://www.npr.org/2021/09/10/1035131619/911-travel-timeline-tsa