SouthWest Airlines has launched a new Boeing 737 aircraft in which another layer of in-flight security has been added. The airlines have confirmed that after adding this feature, South West Airlines has become the first carrier in which such a system has been implemented.
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What Is the Retractable Barrier?
The rectangular cockpit barrier is designed to enhance the safety of the pilot whenever the cockpit door needs to be opened during a flight. Traditionally, flight attendants or service carts are used as a temporary security measure when pilots leave their flight deck. However, this new feature can be deployed quickly as a physical barrier, ensuring the cockpit is secure from any potential threat.
Part of a Federal Mandate
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a rule in 2023 that required new manufactured commercial passenger aircraft to include a second barrier starting in 2025. The rule was introduced for security purposes. Southwest Airlines was the first to add this service, which reflects that the airline has met safety and regulation compliance.
Lessons From Past Incidents
Incidents can be seen. For example, in 2015, German Wings flight 9525 crashed after a co-pilot locked his captain out of the cockpit. And in another case in 2018, passengers on a Delta flight attempted to rush inside the cockpit but were stopped by it. This incident provides an important additional barrier that reduces the opportunity for security breaches.
Expansion Across the Fleet
Southwest has not yet specified how many Boeing 737s will be fitted with this retractable barrier feature, although industry observers expect the feature to be included in new planes delivered. Another major US carrier is now preparing to add such features to comply with FAA requirements.
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