I repeat a reply (edited down) that I made to an almost identical thread running in Aircrew Notices. Please note I am PAX not crew.
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You would have to KNOW that there is a problem. DRAW the weapon (from secure container not smooth leather holster). TURN to look over your shoulder. ASSESS the situation, consider who is standing beside/behind/in front of atacker. DECIDE on action.
Ooops, they just bopped you on the head/sprayed MACE/knifed the hostie etc.
Further, we have seen many remarks about the low ebb that crew reach when they are near the end of a long sector. Let's say you have been on duty for ten hours - since briefing.
Although you have not been in the driving seat all the time, you are going to be bright and ready to take the above kind of action when Mr Nasty arrives to disturb your view of the dawn.
Aren't you?
[ 26 September 2001: Message edited by: PAXboy ]