Why did the pilots carry a pistol with them?

The firearms aboard the aircraft are meant as a deterrent for hijackers, and they’re not allowed to leave the cockpit of the plane. The training is administered through the Federal Air Marshals program.

Do pilots have to take a breathalyzer?

In the US pilots are subject to a blood-alcohol limit of 0.04\%, half the legal limit for drivers in many US states. But pilots aren’t required to take a breathalyzer test before boarding their assigned plane each time. Instead, pilots are tested randomly or if there is reasonable suspicion.

Can you take a gun to Mexico?

No, Mexican Federal Law strictly forbids possession of any firearms or ammunition without proper authorization by the Mexican authorities and is considered a “federal firearms offense”.

Can US pilots carry guns in the cockpit?

A year later, the Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act was passed, allowing US pilots – working for US airlines – to carry guns in the cockpit. The first class of Federal Flight Deck Officers, as the gun-carrying pilots are known, graduated in April 2003. Classes have run ever since. Despite that, the programme isn’t widely-known.

How do pilots train to shoot down hijackers?

Students learn to shoot from seating and standing positions, and prepare for hijackers trying to steal their gun. The pilots are trained not to be drawn out of the cockpit – “They want that door bolted shut, get the aircraft on the ground,” says Sarandrea – and they also learn the rules on storing the guns.

Why do some planes have armed marshals?

In the US, some high-risk flights – those going to risky places, or carrying passengers on watch-lists – have armed air marshals. The marshals, who have at least four months’ initial training, stay in the cabin. The armed pilots are another layer of protection, and a cheaper one.

How many commercial pilots in the US are armed?

The BBC spoke to one American pilot who estimates around one in 10 of the United States’ 125,000 commercial pilots is armed. “Maybe less,” he says. The programme is voluntary. Training is free – as is the gun – but armed pilots aren’t paid extra. Most people in Artesia take annual leave to be there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5ge0pd7hMQ