SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 3, 2001--Alaska Airlines today received final approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to proceed with the reinforcement of cockpit doors.

Installation of a crossbar locking device, which is designed to hinder unauthorized access to the flight deck, began Monday on the carrier's 32 Boeing MD-80 aircraft. The device's primary component is a three-quarter-inch steel bar that can withstand forces of up to 1,500 pounds.

Alaska expects to complete installations on its entire 102-aircraft fleet within 30 days.

For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines Newsroom on the Internet at http://newsroom.alaskaair.com.

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