A former pilot for Delta Airlines, Jonathan J. Dunn, is now facing federal charges after allegedly threatening to shoot a flight captain during a trip last year. The captain had attempted to divert the plane due to a medical emergency involving a passenger. Court documents and officials have confirmed these allegations. These recent developments have raised questions about whether pilots are allowed to carry loaded guns on flights, while regular passengers are not.
So, can pilots carry guns? In certain cases, yes. Dunn was part of the Federal Flight Deck Officer program, which allows flight crew members to use firearms for self-defense and to prevent acts of violence or air piracy. To be eligible for the program, candidates must have a current airman certificate from the FAA, a current medical certificate, and U.S. citizenship. They also need to submit an hour-long online questionnaire that includes personal information and inquiries about past employment, military service, and any previous disciplinary or criminal history.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires potential flight deck officers to undergo vetting, training, and periodic requalification. Those accepted into the program must pass a rigorous training program, including academic lessons, close quarters simulation training, and firearms training. However, it is important to note that flight deck officers are only authorized to carry firearms while acting in their official capacity.
Boarding or attempting to board an aircraft with a concealed weapon is a federal crime for passengers and crew without authorization. However, this law does not apply to federal government officers or employees who are authorized or required to carry arms as part of their official duties.
The incident involving Dunn occurred during a Delta Air Lines flight on August 22, 2022. The Department of Transportation’s inspector general’s office revealed that Dunn had a disagreement with the captain over changing course due to a passenger medical event. Allegedly, Dunn threatened to shoot the captain multiple times if the flight was diverted. Delta Air Lines confirmed that Dunn was employed by the airline as a first officer but declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation. The TSA removed Dunn from the Federal Flight Deck Officer program following the incident.
Dunn is scheduled for arraignment on November 16. He has been indicted by a Utah grand jury for assaulting and intimidating a crew member of an aircraft and using a dangerous weapon during the assault. Charging documents related to the case are sealed, and investigations are being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Aviation Administration.
In conclusion, a former Delta co-pilot is facing federal charges for allegedly threatening a flight captain with a gun during a flight. This incident has brought attention to the regulations surrounding pilots carrying guns, as well as the strict requirements and training for those in the Federal Flight Deck Officer program. The case is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as investigations continue.
