A Reticent Proposition - Solving the Security Problem on Airlines

A continuing source of frustration is often expressed by travelers in this era of terrorist attacks and widespread fear. Political sides often debate the tradeoff, does more security, longer lines, and longer wait periods, equal more security? That question will not be answered here. Is there a simple way to make people feel safe as they take to the skies? The short answer is yes. How? That answer is simpler than any of us realize.

Thus far, the focus of security checks is to keep weapons off of airplanes entirely. The problem that arises from this is best exemplified when viewing the events of September 11, 2001, when terrorists were able to hijack airplanes with weapons as simple as box cutters. Various other solutions have been put into place, such as the placing of air marshals on airplanes. The problem with this is that all human beings are subject to corruption, and if the marshals were to be corrupted, either by personal ideals, money, or other reasons, then suddenly, the only armed person on an airplane is not their to protect the innocent.

Well then, to further realize the practicality of the solution to be proposed, one must realize that it is generally human nature of help others. While a minority may not hold the best interests of others in mind, most people will help those in need when they are able. People are generally good, and in a situation where one is in danger, most people will help. While keeping this in mind, the solution is quite simple. Rather than security checks focusing on assuring that nobody boarding an airplane has a weapon, they should change their focus. Security checks should distribute guns to all adult passengers with clean criminal records who board an airplane.