FAA wants airliner security improved

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed that new airliners be outfitted with a range of features to improve security and protect passengers and crew. It wants aircraft manufacturers to build in stronger floors, bulkheads and ceilings to protect the flight deck, and to add improved fire and smoke suppression systems. The FAA has also recommended the addition of a specially reinforced compartment where any explosive devices found during flight could be safely stowed.

Airliner cockpit doors were strengthened in the two years after 9/11. When that work was complete, aviation authorities listed further improvements to be made in the future. The FAA has opted not to recommend that the new features be retrofitted to airliners already in service, as that would be too disruptive to airliner operations.

Among the added security features FAA wants on new airliners would be changes that would make it harder to hide explosives or weapons on board