Judging by some replies to this post, I hope that the majority of you guys are not skippers or else I think with have a bigger problem than hijackers and sky marshalls on our aircraft.
Just a few points:
1. APS does NOT provide a security service at airports. It provides counter terrorism patrols and response. Although members do get called upon from SACL to resolve situations that the security guards cannot. Usually because they themselves have no idea and just manage to make a situaton much worse.
2. I totally disagree that Air Marshalls should be sourced from the police force.(Let me assure you that APS officers can actually shoot straight!) I have trained officers from both organisations.
3. SAS are great. I have really close mates in some units. Some are actually hunting Bin Laden the scumbag. Although guys, SAS are trained in many skills ONE being aircraft counter terorism. My point is, that these guys from APS are basically undertaking this unit of training. YES INDEED! They are chosen very carefully, then put through a very mentally and physically demanding course. The standards are set very high and many will not make the grade.
4. Finally. Next year will see the first, off the street recruit course start. To anyone that has applied. Good luck! And to anyone that is accepted and thinks it will just be a 13 week holiday. More Good luck to you! Because you are going to need it in bundles.
K A O S. <img src="smile.gif" border="0"> <img src="cool.gif" border="0">