Bush to unveil plans for armed guards on planes

President Bush is expected to announce plans for more armed guards on domestic flights in the US.

The aim is to convince Americans it is safe to fly again after the September 11 terror attacks.

Mr Bush is set to call for an expansion of the sky marshals scheme on a visit to O'Hare Airport in Chicago.

The marshals are armed plainclothed federal agents who ride on planes.

As part of a wider air security plan he is also expected to announce the introduction of stronger cockpit doors.

Thousands of jobs have been lost in the airline industry around the world as American passengers decide not to fly.

Mr Bush said: "One of my concerns is that this terrible incident has convinced many Americans to stay at home.

"One of the keys to economic recovery is going to be the vitality of the airline industry."

Some of the new measures can be implemented quickly by the Federal Aviation Administration, while others will have to be approved by Congress.