Proposed US legislation lets pilots carry guns

Pilots could carry guns in the cockpit to defend airliners against terrorists under a bill the US House of Representatives passed overwhelmingly despite opposition from the White House and airlines.

The legislation, approved by 310 to 113 votes, would allow more than 70,000 pilots guns if they were trained, but it is unlikely to pass in the Senate.

The airline industry fears what would happen if a bullet hit a passenger or crew member or a vital part of the aircraft.

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