Guys, my feelings on this are mixed. I don't like the idea of
holstering the weapon on your person, because that makes every pilot a target
for a mugging by a group when he is alone, especially inside security. FAs
go to the bathroom in groups but pilots usually don't.
My assumption about the lockbox is that it is installed in the
aircraft for storage while on the ground (like the flare gun but obviously
stronger), so that the pilot doesn't need to holster the weapon while not in
flight. ALPA has some good points about liability too, I have enough stuff
on my mind about flying the airplane, let alone worrying about a weapon.
And before anybody says anything, you are right, I don't belong to the
NRA.
Jim Hann
Waterski J-41 Captain
Lambert-St. Louis Airport (STL/KSTL)