World News Quick Take

The federal agency charged with protecting airplane passengers from terrorist attacks is asking governments around the world for permission to place armed pilots on international flights. The Department of Homeland Security wants to extend the system whereby pilots are currently armed on a small number of domestic flights. Pilots are unarmed on international flights, even though they are considered higher risk. There are about 2,000 armed air marshals who fly on domestic and international flights as passengers. The government wants agreements with other countries that cover the use of air marshals to apply to armed pilots. Officials say this would allow a much greater reach as pilots are present on all flights.