AIRPORT SECURITY

Airport Security

Airport Security

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to expand the boundaries of our knowledge by exploring some relevant and factual information relating to the analysis of airport security after 11th September, 2001. In the years after 9-11, security at U.S. airports has increased with the addition of new screening technologies, more stringent traveler guidelines, and more bureaucratic oversight. Emphasis has been placed on what has been termed "a layered approach" to security. One such layer is the perimeter fencing surrounding U.S. airports and its associated security technologies intended to deter, delay, and alert a response of some kind. The following research reviews this U.S. niche market and offers an assessment of what to expect in years to come. Sizing this market was accomplished through estimates derived from state projects identified by the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Program. The most influential market drivers for U.S. airport perimeter security are terrorism and unlawful intrusions. Conversely, the most significant market restraints are the physical size and location of most airports, which make it difficult to provide adequate and effective perimeter security.

Background

The world and the United States stood still on 11 September 2001 as terrorist attacked the United States using four jetliners. Over the course of the next thirteen months, the President of the United States along with the U.S. Congress passed a series of bills that would change the structure of the U.S. government. On 20 September 2001, President George W. Bush announces to congress the formation of the Office Homeland Security. In a speech to congress, President Bush states, “Our nation has been put on notice: We are not immune from attack. We will take defensive measures against terrorism to protect Americans. Today, dozens of federal departments and agencies, as well as state and local governments, have responsibilities affecting homeland security, which includes airport security. Of these government agencies, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provides the federal guidelines, which all airports must adhere to for security. The FAA and TSA provide these guidelines through the Recommended Security Guidelines for Airport Planning, Design, and Construction, and TSA civil aviation rules, CFR 49-1542. It is up to airport operators to follow these guidelines to insure passenger and employee safety.

Question: What are the changes since September 11th, 2001?

Discussion

Many airports across the United States use local law enforcement to aid in the security of their airports. However, several airports have established have their own public safety department as part of the airport security plan. This method appears to be an efficient way of ensuring quick responses to all emergency that occur on airport property. The reason for law enforcement on airport property and located at all screening location is that security personnel only have the authority to detain individuals until law enforcement arrive.

In order for this method to work airport operators must inure that the airport police are appointed by their state and have statutory authority to engage in certain ...