PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation by unanimous consent.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in Senate · May 22, 2002
Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act - Amends Federal law to direct the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security to establish a program to: (1) deputize qualified volunteer pilots of passenger aircraft as Federal flight deck officers; and (2) provide training, supervision, and equipment for such officers.Directs the Under Secretary to authorize flight deck officers to carry firearms and to use force, including lethal force, when they judge the security of an aircraft is at risk. Shields air carriers from liability for damages in Federal or State court arising out of the actions or omissions of a flight deck officer defending a plane from criminal violence or air piracy. Shields flight deck officers from liability except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
People & committees
Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC] · R–SC
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation by unanimous consent.
Senate Committee on Armed Services discharged by Unanimous Consent.
Senate Committee on Armed Services discharged by Unanimous Consent.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services. (text of measure as introduced: CR S4716)
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S4716)
Introduced in Senate
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Sep 8, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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