Airport security

After Brussels attack, it’s time to re-evaluate airport security: Janice Hahn

Because of nature of the 9/11 attacks, we focused our nation’s efforts on strengthening security on aircraft and preventing terrorists from getting on planes. Since 2001, we have strengthened cockpit doors, improved passenger screening, screened checked baggage and increased the presence of air marshals, and armed pilots.

Despite all of these efforts, airports will continue to be targets for terrorists because of their symbolic value and a guarantee to garner international media attention.

The events in Brussels clearly demonstrate that travelers are vulnerable before they even get to TSA security checkpoints. Ticket counters, restaurants and retail stores all remain susceptible to attacks. Unfortunately, this latest attack could inspire others and we need to re-evaluate our current system and how we can ensure our entire airports are secure, including the areas before TSA screening areas.

The morning of the attack in Brussels, I called TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger to discuss re-evaluating our airport security and expanding TSA perimeters. TSA may make the choice to expand security perimeters, but until then I think the public will want to see more uniformed police officers and bomb-sniffing dogs patrolling and securing airport complexes.