1. Mr. Pistole is insisting that he won't bargain over security policies, pay and benefits, qualifications or disciplinary measures.

2. In a statement later Sunday, Mr. Pistole struck a less strict tone though he didn't announce any alteration to the policy.

3. But FBI official Pistole said the bomb's assembly did not appear very advanced.

4. Pistole noted the TSA's efforts to expedite the passage of airline pilots through airport checkpoints.

5. "I believe they are as safe as can be based on prior studies," Mr. Pistole said.

6. I was grateful to have been included in the meeting with Mr. Pistole.