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Delta to offer defense training to flight attendants

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- Delta Air Lines has decided to begin offering personal defense training to its flight attendants.

A Delta spokesman at its Atlanta, Georgia, headquarters would not disclose when the training would begin, saying an announcement would be made soon. The training will not be mandatory.

"This type of training is an additional investment in our employees because it builds knowledge in their own personal security," said airline spokesman John Kennedy.

EXTRA INFORMATION In-depth: Flight risk

PPCT Management Systems Inc., an Illinois company that specializes in "use of force" training, will prepare Delta flight attendants under contract.

PPCT founder Bruce Siddle said his firm would create specialized programs for the flight attendants that would include more than basic self-defense techniques.