GOA Releases Feature Documentary on the Fight to Arm Pilots Following 9/11

By Walter Smoloski

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 25, 2024

Washington, D.C. – Today, Gun Owners of America, in partnership with Guns Out TV, released a film documenting the fight in Washington, D.C. following 9/11 to arm airline pilots and deter future hijackers from carrying out mass casualty attacks with planes.

Featuring GOA staff and several of the pilots who were involved in the lobbying efforts, the film starts by highlighting the passage of gun control legislation in 1980s that stripped pilots of their right to carry onboard flights. Subsequently, it documents the battle in Washington after the 9/11 terrorist attacks to re-arm pilots and ensure that such a tragedy could never happen again.

Despite stiff headwinds, legislation did ultimately pass as part of the Department of Homeland Security Act in 2002. By establishing the Federal Flight Deck Officer Program, Congress allowed DHS to deputize and train pilots to carry firearms and defend aircraft cockpits with deadly force against attempted criminal and terrorist acts.

This documentary will be available via GOA’s YouTube channel and social media platforms. The film is being released today to mark the 22nd anniversary of the passage of the legislation itself.

John Velleco, GOA’s Executive Vice President, issued the following statement: 

“GOA is proud to have put so much time and effort into this

Source: Gun Owners of America