What is the role of a Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO)?

• A. Pilots who never carry firearms
• B. Ground security personnel only
• C. Air traffic controllers
• D. Pilots authorized to carry a firearm to protect the flight deck; considered LEOs for this purpose only.

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is that these officers exist to defend the cockpit. Federal Flight Deck Officers are pilots who have been specially trained, vetted, and authorized to carry a firearm on board to protect the flight deck from unlawful interference. They operate as law enforcement officers for this purpose only, with the authority to use force if necessary to safeguard the crew and passengers while flying. Their role is limited to protecting the cockpit during flight, and they are not general ground security personnel, air traffic controllers, or other kinds of police officers. This program adds an immediate, trained response capability to cockpit security, in coordination with broader security measures.