Some Psychological Contributions to Defenses against Hijackers

Abstract

This article traces the historical development of aerial hijackings internationally and domestically and psychological contributions toward their control. As the U.S. hijacking problem increased, the FAA gathered an interdisciplinary study team to derive controls. Selective boarding gate screening procedures were created which used a behavioral profile to identify high risk passengers for search. A library was established for accumulating all available information on hijackings. This information is used for developing new profiles and deriving tactics to teach airline crews for defense against future hijackers. Tactical training programs were developed, their usefulness was demonstrated operationally, and they have been distributed to all U.S. and many foreign carriers. A research program continues for upgrading defenses.