London, Tuesday, 30th October: British Airways is to strengthen cockpit doors across its entire fleet of aircraft with a full-length metal armour plate.

The plate is designed to substantially reinforce cockpit door exteriors and prevent unauthorised access to the flight deck.

In addition, British Airways will be strengthening the flight deck door lock and hinges.

David Hyde, Director of Safety, Security and Environment for British Airways, said: “Safety and security are our top priorities and the bedrock of our reputation.

“This is a major security improvement and is another stage in our continuing programme of security enhancements.

“The work complements security improvements already introduced on the ground, at airports and across British Airways.

“Our passengers can be certain that we will do everything within our power to continue to ensure that they have a safe and secure flight with us.”

Installation of the metal plate, designed and produced in-house by British Airways Engineering, has already started and will be completed in the very near future.

British Airways currently spends £100 million a year on security measures and is fully compliant with all Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions (DTLR) and Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) security regulations.

The airline continues to examine a range of other security initiatives. Consideration is being given to measures such as CCTV on the flight deck and computer software to name-trap suspicious passengers at check-in.

In addition, British Airways is continuing discussions with government, airworthiness authorities and manufacturers to develop permanent changes to its aircraft to ensure long-term safety and security.

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