From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Airline security refers to procedures as well as infrastructure designed to avoid security problems aboard aircraft. A related area is airport security. In most countries, security for air travel has been entirely based in airports. An exception has been security measures aboard aircraft of the Israeli El Al airline which include undercover armed security guards, as well as secure cargo holds.

Security devices include metal detctors, watch dogs and guards that do random checks. Many airports now use advanced forms of identification in security controlled areas of airports. Simple cards that identify a person as an airline or airport employee, or authorized personnel are the most common measures (For example, the ASIC in Australia).

Sensitive areas in airports, including airport ramps and operational spaces, are restricted from the general public. Called a SIDA (Security Identification Display Area) in the US, these spaces require special qualifications to enter.

The suggestion of increasing security aboard aircraft arose after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. A controversial decision in the United States has been to allow pilots to carry handguns for personal safety. As well as proposals to strengthen airport security, United States Congress spent $250 million to reinforce the cockpit doors on commercial aircraft. However, in some aircraft, these cockpit doors remain open due to restricted ventilation in the cockpit.

See also

• Critical infrastructure
• Infrastructure Security
• Security Identification Display Area
• Sky marshal
• Aviation Security Identification Card (Australia)

External links

• http://www.airsafe.com
• http://www.tsa.gov/