Virgin plans to increase cockpit security

Virgin Atlantic said today it was planning to introduce special cockpit security measures on its aircraft in the wake of the September 11 attacks.

Richard Branson’s airline plans to reinforce flight deck doors as a short-term measure to keep pilots safe from hijackers.

It will later fit additional bullet-proof doors with video cameras and digital locks, ensuring only crew members can enter.

The alterations must first be cleared by the British Civil Aviation Authority and Virgin will also consult pilots’ union Balpa.

Virgin Atlantic’s chairman said: ‘‘British airlines have a world class security record and the safety and security of our crew and our passengers has always been our highest priority.

‘‘The events of September 11 highlighted the catastrophic consequences of terrorists taking control of aircraft and as a result we have decided to significantly heighten the protection we give our pilots.

‘‘Specifically, as a short-term solution, we have asked the CAA to follow the (US) Federal Aviation Authority lead to allow the immediate fitting of security bars to existing flight deck doors as well as permission to strengthen these doors.

‘‘Virgin Atlantic believes that a longer-term and more permanent solution is to fit additional, more secure doors leading into the cockpit. These doors would be bullet, heat and shock-proof with digital locks and CCTV monitors to ensure that only authorised staff gain entry.’’

The airline said the new measures would take into account the need to provide emergency access to and from the flight deck and the threat of depressurisation.

The Virgin Atlantic Chairman added: ‘‘We will also introduce a number of other measures that will not be visible to our passengers but which will both protect our passengers and crew and enhance the screening of passengers and baggage.

‘‘These are not decisions we’ve taken lightly but are ones that I’m sure will be welcomed by all who fly with us in the future and who share our view that the best response to recent events is for us all to get back to business.’’