Final answer:
LEOs should secure the cockpit to prevent unauthorized access and prioritize protecting passengers during an act of air piracy or onboard violence. They cannot afford to remain passive and must act swiftly, based on their training for such incidents.
Step-by-step explanation:
During an act of air piracy or violence onboard an aircraft, Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) have to consider a range of actions to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. At the top of the list is to secure the cockpit, preventing unauthorized access which may lead to the loss of control over the aircraft. Furthermore, LEOs should prioritize protecting passengers, which may involve subduing the perpetrator or coordinating with the flight crew and other passengers to contain the threat.
While LEOs may take guidance from the flight crew, they cannot remain passive until backup arrives as decisions often must be made swiftly to prevent escalation. They need to balance the necessity of immediate action with the risks posed to those onboard and the integrity of the aircraft. LEOs should be trained in protocols specific to onboard incidents, considering the unique challenges of an airborne environment.