APSA Action Alert

 

PASS THIS ALONG TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW.

The first class of 44 pilots was deputized as FFDO’s on April 19, 2003. The Aviation Subcommittee in the House of Representatives chaired by Congressman John Mica (R-FL) is meeting tomorrow, May 8th at 10:00 am to review the current FFDO (Federal Flight Deck Officer) program.There are several issues of concern that need prompt Congressional oversight. Please call your Representative and Senators, identify yourself as an Airline Pilots’ Security Alliance (APSA) supporter, ask for the Aviation Staffer, then relay the following points as problem areas that need to be addressed:

· Pilot Applicant Screening. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is tasked with the implementation of the FFDO program. They need to encourage participation by the greatest number of pilots possible. Screening methods should only eliminate the overly aggressive and should not intimidate pilots from volunteering for this important task. Congress rejected all attempts to build in limits of participation. Congress has clearly passed a law that allows a permanent wide-ranging armed pilot program.

· Firearm Carry Protocol. The method of custody and carry of the firearms should be the safest, most secure possible. Standards used for other law enforcement officers should be the model for the FFDO program.

· Time Off for Training. The initial time off for training must be accommodated by airline schedules. Pilots are volunteering their time without pay but may find it impossible to arrange the time in their schedules without assistance from their respective airline. Airlines have accommodated military reserves requirements for many years to allow pilots to serve their country in this important way. This is no different. Pilots need to be able to have the time to attend initial training for the FFDO program. This is a once in a lifetime event that is vital to our national security.

APSA is committed to an FFDO program that will be successful with great participation. We call on all supporters to contact Congress and ask them to perform their vital oversight function of the agency assigned this responsibility.

These pilots that apply for the FFDO program are answering the call of President Bush to volunteer to serve their country. Airline pilots are already highly scrutinized professionals entrusted with the lives of their passengers and crew. We call on the TSA to give them the respect, training, and tools they need to maintain the security of our aircraft, skies and citizens on the ground.

Please call your Representative today. Ask them to review all aspects of the Federal Flight Deck Officer program. Ask them to ensure that the Transportation Security Administration is implementing the intent and will of Congress. The Capitol switchboard is (202) 224-3121. The operator can connect you to your Representative by giving them your zip code. Thank you for your support. Your calls do make the difference.

Visit our new and improved web site at http://www.secure-skies.org While you are there please make a donation if you can. We are working for you and any financial help is greatly appreciated.

REMEMBER TO IDENTIFY YOURSELF AS AN APSA SUPPORTER.

HAVE YOUR REPRESENTATIVE THANK THE MEMBERS OF THE AVIATION SUBCOMMITTEE AND ESPECIALLY CHAIRMAN MICA FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE ARMED PILOT PROGRAM

MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE WILL BE POSTED ON OUR WEB SITE ON THE ALERT PAGE

www.secure-skies.org

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