25F

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?

UL730

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.

Onan the Clumsy

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.

Evening Star

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