Since the terrorist attacks of September 11th, there has been a hugh discussion regarding air safety. I don’t think it takes a rocket scientist to figure out that the first step MUST be the proper inspection of luggage before it is put on board the plane. I don’t mean those people who are busy talking to their friends while inspecting, I mean well trained, well paid conscientious luggage inspectors. Additionally, I would like all luggage x-rayed. Question: Do plastic knives show up in luggage with x-ray?
I also believe the people who check identification should be trained to check most carefully and be alert to possible suspicious characters.
Another suggestion I have is all schools who teach flying must be required to submit the students application, including finger prints for approval. No student should be permitted to take flying lessons or simulator lessons without a valid permit, containing a picture, fingerprints and validated address checks.
Now to the airplane:
I believe the pilots should have a reinforced not able to be penatrated, locked door. Unfortunately, the pilots must also be trained not to open the door under any circumstances. Even if the passengers or stewards are being threatened, they must NEVER open the door until they have safely landed their airplane. What good is it if the pilot goes out to help and gets himself killed and/or is forced to relinquish control of the plane? Our first concern, unfortunately, must be the safety of many... It might be a good plan to install a certain gassing system--not harmful, but one that would have the ability to render all the passengers helpless, thereby rendering the would be hi-jackers helpless. Some of these devices would have to be kept secret because these terrorists are really cleaver and might come on board with gas masks. (Of course, that item should be discovered during luggage inspection.)
I believe that everything that can be done should be done to insure passenger safety and public safety. Desperate times call for desperate measures.
I realize my suggestions are expensive and time consuming.. but the tragedy at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon should be a wake up call.