" Accurate , comprehensive, thought provoking beyond belief. A long overdue inside look at a layered aviation security system plagued with misconception and vulnerabilities. . . the reference 'bible' for anyone looking to identify the flaws in the aviation security system."
--Captain Stephen A. Luckey, Chairman
National Security Committee,
Air Line Pilots Association, International
"The terrorists' devastating attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, did not succeed because they were so good, but because the state of the U.S. aviation security system was so bad. Thomas lays out the cost of complacency and shows how remaining holes in aviation security can be plugged. Without safety, airlines can fail; without security, an entire industry can fail."
- David Evans, Editor, Air Safety Week
ôPacked with facts about the state of security or insecurity in aviation . . . I would strongly encourage everyone involved with the aviation industry to read this book."
-Fred Ragsdale,
Program Director, Training
National Terrorism Preparedness Institute
St. Petersburg College,St. Petersburg, Florida
The events of September 11 compelled the American public to look at air travel as much more than merely another way of getting from point A to point B. An industry that was previously viewed as a routine component of modern transport is now seen as both a vital national asset and a vulnerable security risk. In this probing critique of aviation security since 9/11, Andrew R. Thomas, a globally recognized aviation security expert, examines the recent overhaul of the national aviation security system.
Despite the complete federal takeover of aviation security in November 2001, Thomas notes many continuing problems, including: millions of passenger bags that are still not screened or matched; the unresolved problem of air rage and unruly passenger behavior; the ôforgotten chasmö of air cargo, which remains largely unchecked due to inadequate resources; and lax standards, the hiring of high-risk employees, and the failure to secure critical areas in many of our nationÆs airports.
Thomas also considers many of the proposed solutions to these vulnerabilities: biometrics, profiling, air marshals, bomb-detection devices, and smart technology that links reservations systems to private and government databases. How practical are these proposals? Will they work? What will they cost? How much time will be needed to implement any or all of them? In light of the restructuring of airline security, what new roles will be played by the airline industry, government, airports, and the Transportation Security Administration? ThomasÆs thorough analysis and command of all the facts create an enlightening overview of the airline security dilemma and its numerous formidable challenges.
Finally, he considers the future, outlining a strategic approach for government and industry to meet new and existing threats while continuing to serve the public in an efficient manner.