When were active shooter incidents first traced in aviation security?

The correct answer is the 1970s, as this period marked the initial emergence of active shooter incidents within aviation security contexts. Notably, one of the most significant events was the hijacking of TWA Flight 847 in 1985, yet the troubling trend of violent events linked to aviation began earlier. Incidents from the 1970s highlighted vulnerabilities in airport security, prompting discussions on how to protect passengers and crews from not just hijackings, but also from the threat of violent attacks. This early recognition of potential active shooter scenarios laid the groundwork for developing more comprehensive security measures that have evolved over the decades as threats have changed.