The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), Washington, DC, an organization representing flight attendants, has called for tightened aviation security after an attempted terrorist attack on Christmas Day exposed weaknesses in the current system. AFA-CWA representatives have presented position papers and briefed dozens of Congressional leaders and their staff on flight attendant proposals for counterterrorism initiatives to help increase safety and security inside the aircraft cabin.

AFA-CWA's counterterrorism strategy comes in the form of hands-on training, enhanced communication techniques, and carry-on bag limitations. Mandatory, hands-on and situational training for crew members and providing the resources necessary for recognizing and physically reacting to on-board terrorist activity are other elements of the plan. In addition, AFA-CWA recommends that on-board wi-fi systems used by passengers be kept off during periods of high risk as defined by the Department of Homeland Security.

Source: AFA-CWA