Regarding this argument about whether you are 'in charge' or not when parked - my own little story might be of interest.
A week or so after 9-11 I had a security 'situation' on the gate in LHR.
I called SB to the a/c, and they concurred that there were valid reasons for my suspicion.
I felt the situation thus warranted an orderly disembarkation of the pax via the jetway. There was no bomb threat - just some suspicious behaviour/ circumstances.
When I told SB that was my decision - they informed me in no uncertain circumstances they would not allow it. And when I pointed out that this was my a/c and I would make such decisions - they told me - NO - you are on the ground in the UK, your park brake is set and your door is open - we're in charge, not you.
I'm interested to hear what the gung-ho types would've done in the situation.
By the way - there were armed police surrounding the a/c and standing on the jetway. My bet is the first guy off would've got a bullet.
Hello RollingThunder.
