If we have secure cockpit doors this may not solve the problem. A terrorist seen by aircrew killing/torturing a flight attendant (viewed through the peephole or described via intercom) may, today or tomorrow, still coerce a crew member to open the door; on a variety of pretexts or promises (think about it). I believe cabin security is the issue. Air marshalls are expensive and arming every passenger with a weapon with non-skin penetrating projectiles is both expensive and a
PR nightmare(so who gives a rat's arse about that you may say - as I do). On every commercial flight you would have either on or off-duty military personnel. I am suggesting that an option could be to specifically train certain military personnel in tactics for disabling terrorists (preferably permanently). When these people fly they will be specifically cleared to carry a specialist weapon and be there to assist on the day of your worst nightmare. This option is almost cost neutral. Comments please ladies and gentlemen!
[ 17 September 2001: Message edited by: NormanBates ]