Rep. Cravaack hammers Janet Napolitano over cuts to armed pilots program

Published on February 17, 2012
Duration: 4:11

Representative Cravaack questions Secretary Napolitano regarding significant budget cuts to the Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) program. The discussion highlights the program's cost-effectiveness, its role as a last line of defense against air piracy, and the TSA's shift towards risk-based security systems. The congressman emphasizes the personal sacrifice of FFDO volunteers and urges a re-evaluation of the budget reduction.

Quick Summary

The Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) program, which utilizes armed volunteer pilots as a last line of defense against air piracy, is facing significant budget cuts from $25 million to $12.5 million. The TSA justifies this reduction by stating the program is not 'risk-based,' a shift the agency is making in its security strategy.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction and Budget Cuts
  2. 00:14FFDO Program Overview and Cost-Effectiveness
  3. 01:01Reasoning Behind the Budget Cut
  4. 01:14TSA's Risk-Based Security Approach
  5. 01:42FFDO as Last Line of Defense Debate
  6. 02:42Pilot's Perspective on Cockpit Security
  7. 03:13Intentions for the FFDO Program
  8. 03:33Impact on Volunteer Pilots
  9. 04:07Call to Re-evaluate Budget Decisions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) program facing budget cuts?

The TSA cites that the FFDO program is not 'risk-based,' and the agency is shifting its funding priorities towards security systems that are designed to be risk-based.

What is the cost-effectiveness of the FFDO program?

The program is presented as highly cost-effective, with an estimated cost of only $15 per FFDO flight, making it one of the most efficient government programs for protecting the traveling public.

What is the role of an armed pilot in aviation security?

An armed pilot, as a Federal Flight Deck Officer, is considered the last line of defense against air piracy, providing critical security directly within the cockpit.

How do pilots participate in the FFDO program?

Pilots volunteer for the FFDO program, often using their personal vacation days, taking time off work, and paying for their own lodging to complete the necessary training.

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