News Release
Continental and Continental Express to Reinforce Cockpit Doors
HOUSTON, October 3, 2001 -- Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) and its regional air carrier Continental Express (NYSE: CAL) will begin immediate installation of secondary reinforcing restraints on cockpit doors to enhance security on their aircraft, pending receipt of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) final criteria specifications. With approval, the airlines plan to complete installation on all of Continental’s 341 aircraft and Continental Express’ 160 aircraft within 30 days.
Both Continental and Continental Express have been working closely with the FAA, Boeing and Embraer to develop a reinforcing restraint that is similar to a crossbar or deadbolt depending on the aircraft, and mounted on the inside of the door.
"Our team has been working diligently to develop a solid solution for each door configuration in our fleet that provides the maximum level of security in a short time frame," said C.D. McLean, Continental’s executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Continental Airlines is the fifth largest airline in the U.S., offering more than 1,900 departures daily to 122 domestic and 89 international destinations. Operating hubs in Newark, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, Continental serves more international cities than any other U.S. carrier, including extensive service throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit continental.com.