Last
October, Boeing formed a Security and Safety Services organization
to underscore our focus on enhancing the safety and efficiency of
the air transportation system. Given recent events, there is no
more urgent priority at Boeing, and I am very pleased to lead the
team working to enhance the safety, security, and efficiency of
airplanes and the larger air transport system.
Our immediate focus has
been on helping customers implement the recommendations of the U.S.
Department of Transportation Rapid Response Team on Aircraft Security
(commonly known as the Mineta task force). We have been working
around the clock with industry experts to meet recommendations to
prevent cockpit intrusion and to design video-monitoring equipment
that allows flight crews to keep watch on the passenger cabin. We
also are examining ways for positive tracking of airplanes even
after transponders have been switched off. Many of the solutions
will be applicable to the entire fleet, not just those jets made
by Boeing.
But these activities
are just the start. True security can be accomplished only by addressing
all aspects of air travel. After we address the Mineta team recommendations,
we will look at the safety and security of the entire airplane and
the transport system itself. We will be working toward a wider range
of improvements that will create a more secure and efficient air
transport system for the 21st century. In partnership with airlines
and industry, we will look beyond immediate fixes for ways to enhance
the security of the entire flight process for passengers,
cabin crews, flight crews, ground personnel, airports, and airline
operations.
The formation of this
new Security and Safety Services organization allows us to employ
the vast store of Boeing intellectual capital to create new ways
to enhance safety throughout all aspects of the aviation and transportation
industries. Recent events prove there is a place for new technology
and quick action that lead to a more secure air transport system.
The experts in this industry are working hard to bring that technology
to bear. We will sharpen that effort, which will give passengers
the confidence they expect when flying.

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