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TSA screeners fail to catch explosives at security checkpoint
First, the Transportation Security Administration tipped off screeners to a "covert" security test (the company later denied that the email was a tip-off). Now, government investigators successfully smuggled liquid explosives and detonators past airport security. The Associated Press writes,The investigators learned about the components to make an improvised explosive device and an improvised incendiary device on the Internet and purchased the parts at local stores, said the report by the Government Accountability Office. Investigators were able to purchase the components for the two devices for under $150, and they studied the published guidelines for screening to determine how to conceal the prohibited items as they went through checkpoint security.
The investigators concluded, basically, that it doesn't take much to slip past security with all the necessary components for a homemade bomb.
The TSA defended itself by noting that there are many more layers of security beyond major checkpoints. Good point, but if you can make it through the x-ray machines and wands as well as the veritable strip search, it seems like you could probably make it through anything.
What do you think? Planning to fly anywhere over the Thanksgiving holiday?
Filed under: North America, United States, Airlines, Transportation, Airports
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Don Jan 25th 2008 5:09AM
When the rules were in place to keep possible threats out people pissed and moaned to congressmen so they changed the rules to make travelers happy if some thing happens blame the cry babies because they are to blame
Chris Nov 16th 2007 11:11AM
I think this is really scary! If someone wants to blow up a plane, they will, sooner or later. And we can all count on it happening again.
Personally, I'm flying to New York City from West Palm Beach for Christmas. The only thing that comforts me is the fact that if there is going to be a bomb, the odds that it will be on my place are so so so low. Considering the amount of flights there are on a daily basis, not to mention during the holidays.
If it wasn't for the whole odds thing, I'd be scared.
will Nov 16th 2007 7:20PM
This doesn't surprise me. On my way home from McCarran, as i went through the airport security, i had forgot to remove my liquids from my carry-on. Well they had no problem with me leaving my liquids in my carry-on, however they did complain about me wearing my sweatshirt though the scanners.