NFIB

Bush Plans to Step Up Airport Security
09/27/2001

President Bush Thursday sought to calm Americans' fear of air travel, calling for increased safety both on airplanes and in airports, CNN reports.

Bush asked state governors to mobilize National Guard units for increased security at the nation's airports. He also called for air marshals on almost every flight and asked airlines to fortify cockpit doors and restrict them from being opened during flight.

To fund these requests, Bush pledged $500 million to help airlines with the modifications, as the industry continues to suffer steep losses following the Sept. 11 attacks. The money would come from grants and cost-sharing programs.

"Get on the airlines, get about the business of America," Bush said during a rally at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.