A small number of U.S. airline pilots could be allowed to carry guns on duty as early this spring, according to recommendations finalized by a government task force on Wednesday. President Bush signed legislation in November to arm commercial aviators with handguns as a last line of defense against cockpit intruders. The measure was a direct response to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington. Three hijacked planes flew into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, and a fourth crashed in Pennsylvania. A Transportation Security Administration task force, working with airlines, pilots’ unions, law enforcement, and manufacturers in recent months to develop guidelines, plans to submit its recommendations to senior officials. Congress demanded the guidelines be completed by Feb. 26. The recommendations still must be approved by Transportation Security Administration chief James Loy, who could change any aspect of the plan. Full Story
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