In trying to discourage hijacking, the airlines, and several governments have developed "sky marshals" programs and electromic equipment that can detect weapons. "Sky Marshals" are non-uniformed policemen and detectives who board flights like ordinary passengers but who are specially trained to prevent hijackings in the air. After skyjacking became so popular, many airlines began sending at least two sky marshals on every flight. Airports started using electronic devices that can detect metal in a passenger's baggage or on the passenger himself to prevent bomb, guns, or even knives from being carried on board. A number of law enforcement agencies also began to develop "hijacker profiles", reports giving descriptions and information about known hijackers. These are sent to airlines and airports for their protection. Despite such attempts to stop them, however the air piracies continue. One reason is that many air pirates are not arrested when they land, and few of those are brought to trial. Alos, some hijackers have been an encouraging example to others.
To reduce the danger that accompanies hijacking, effective steps must be taken to discourage air piracy. Sky marshals, electronic equipmant, and hijacker profiles are not sufficient to stop skyjacking. It would be more effective to establish international procedures forhandling hijackers from the moment they land, so that every potential hijacker knows he will be arrested and tried for his crime, regardless of his motive in committing the hijacking. This requires international co-operation, however, and so far the nations have been unable to agree on acceptable procedures.