Continental Airlines to Equip Boeing 777 With Cabin Monitoring System

HOUSTON, May 3 - Continental Airlines will initiate a pilot project to equip a Boeing 777 aircraft with a Cabin Monitoring System as an added element in its flight security program.

A multi-camera video system will allow pilots in the flight deck to observe various areas of the cabin, mainly focused on ensuring security in the vicinity of the flight deck door. The system also gives the cabin crew an additional source of information about the cabin status through flight attendants' communication with the flight deck.

The project is made possible by a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration from funds authorized by Congress to enhance flight security.

"Good security programs have multiple features that together form an effective deterrent or barrier, and we think that providing our crews with another view of the cabin will complement other security measures," said Debbie McCoy, Sr. V.P.-Flight Operations. "The system will be particularly beneficial in focusing on anyone requesting access to the flight deck in order to confirm their identity."

After in-service trials and review, Continental will evaluate extending the program to other aircraft.

Editors Note: Remember Airplanes are Automotive Too!