I'm in an argument on another forum.

Somebody is claiming that it was (up til 2 years ago) standard procedure to call for armed escort fighters in the event of a hijacking.

He is also claiming that the US East Coast would (normally) have had a number of armed fighters on patrol at any one time, but they happened not to on 11/9/2001.

As far as claim 1 goes I've found some US military docs specifying that the FAA could request help, which implies that it was not mandatory.

I do not want to start an argument here: but if anybody can confirm that both these claims are false - preferably with the support of a trustworthy website reference - I'd be grateful.

Apologies if this is deemed inappropriate for the Questions forum...

[Edit starts here]

Okay, it's been moved to Jet Blast. Still, I am not looking for an argument, I'm looking for the facts. Was it or was it not standard procedure in the US and / or elsewhere to call for an armed fighter escort?

Hey man - chill out - yer in Jet Blast now.

The only armed fighter escort you can expect is when Drapes goes to Tesco - to spend squillions of Green Shield stamps. He does have a good dialogue with the vice president of Eastern Seaboard Operations ( Gatesheed ) and will positively affirm both arguments have merit and demerit.

I am but a humble disciple presaging his wisdom.

I heard the RAF have a number of fighters in constant operation incase TD is ever seen leaving his house.

They've been given orders to take no prisoners. :ugh:

Hummmm, the RAF playing hide and seek around the chimney pots of Newcastle. Now that would explain a few things ...