Lot's of airline pilots have volunteered their time to attend this training. It is a GREAT course! They feel strongly that NOBODY is going to take over the cockpit again on their watch!
Pilots are indeed supposed to fly airplanes. They are also responsible for the overall safety of the flight. It's much better to negate terrorists trying to take over the airplane; saving the other passenger's lives. The alternative is for a military fighter jet to shoot the airliner down before it becomes a media event as it crashes into yet another building.
Specific information regarding the pilot program is on the TSA website for anyone's review.
One would think an airline that could boast certified, armed pilots might enjoy better business. It would be to the advantage of any airline these days to foot the bill for strict security procedures (free from government intervention WRT "discrimination") in order to gain more business. It would be to the advantage of us all if there were less regulation in regard to concealed carry.