Despite spending literally billions of dollars to enhance aviation security in the wake of 9-11, our commercial aviation system remains vulnerable to a terrorist attack. APSA is concerned that much of these security enhancements: such as creating a standing army of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screeners to improve passenger and carry-on luggage screening offer marginal improvements at best. At worst, they create an illusion of security for the flying public at great taxpayer expense.

APSA remains committed to fighting for aviation security programs that provide true security enhancements while at the same time represent a wise use of limited taxpayer resources. Our organization has always maintained that a robust Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) program is one of the most cost-effective ways to deter another 9-11 style attack. Even with broad bipartisan and public support for an armed pilot program, the present FFDO program as implemented by the TSA remains woefully inadequate. Tens of thousands of commercial pilots refuse to volunteer for the current ill-conceived program. APSA and its allies in Congress waged a relentless battle to pass the Cockpit Technical Corrections and Improvements Act in late 2004. Unfortunately, the measure died before a vote was taken. Chief on APSA's agenda is the redoubling of its efforts to fix the FFDO program.