Prior to 9/11, the airlines were dealing with what was defined as air rage, disgruntled patrons were forcing their way into airplane cockpits to wreak havoc and occasionally to hijack a plane.
Cockpit doors then were left open and the only defense pilots had against the aforementioned were unarmed flight attendants. People were pushing legislators for stricter laws regarding cockpit security.
When the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001 occurred, legislation to mandate that cockpit doors be locked at all times and armed security personnel be required on flights was in the proposal stage.
Walter Krzeminski
Easthampton