Published November 2002

FAA certifies Everett company’s reinforced cockpit door

SCBJ Staff

The Federal Aviation Administration has certified a reinforced cockpit door manufactured and installed by Cascade Aviation Services Inc. of Everett.

Paul Vallins, president of the company, which specializes in interior modifications on aircraft, said the door already is in use on 30 planes operated by Horizon Air.

In the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, federal officials last year called for improving cockpit doors to make it difficult for terrorists to take over a plane’s controls.

By April, all airlines are required to have made at least interim improvements to their cockpit doors. By Oct. 9, 2003, they are required to have all-new, secure doors in place on planes.

Cascade began installing its reinforced doors, made by the company’s Aero Industries manufacturing plant in Arlington, last year.

After putting the doors into many of Horizon’s planes, Vallins said Cascade is making dozens more for other airlines across the country.

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