In response to a the arrests in Britain of a number of extremists engaged in a substantial plot to destroy multiple passenger aircraft flying from the United Kingdom to the United States, the Department of Homeland Security has raised the threat level to High, or Orange, for all commercial aviation operating in or destined for the United States.
The announcement from Homeland Security goes on to state, "Consistent with these higher threat levels, the Transportation Security Administration is coordinating with federal partners, airport authorities and commercial airlines on expanding the intensity of existing security requirements. Due to the nature of the threat revealed by this investigation, we are prohibiting any liquids, including beverages, hair gels, and lotions from being carried on the airplane. This determination will be constantly evaluated and updated when circumstances warrant. These changes will take effect at 4:00 AM local time across the country. Travelers should also anticipate additional security measures within the airport and at screening checkpoints."
Things could be worse. In England, all carry-on luggage has been banned and with few exceptions nothing may be brought onto planes. This will have major implications for businessmen with laptops and tourists with cameras and other electronic equipment. It's hard to imagine anyone being willing to pack these expensive electronic items in their checked luggage.
I'm unclear how this ban on liquids will be enforced. Once you pass security almost all airports have lots of places that sell sodas, coffee, etc. Does this mean that they be banning the sale of all liquids in airports? What happens to folks with long layovers? They can eat but not drink? We'll see how this plays out.
The announcement from Homeland Security goes on to state, "Consistent with these higher threat levels, the Transportation Security Administration is coordinating with federal partners, airport authorities and commercial airlines on expanding the intensity of existing security requirements. Due to the nature of the threat revealed by this investigation, we are prohibiting any liquids, including beverages, hair gels, and lotions from being carried on the airplane. This determination will be constantly evaluated and updated when circumstances warrant. These changes will take effect at 4:00 AM local time across the country. Travelers should also anticipate additional security measures within the airport and at screening checkpoints."
Things could be worse. In England, all carry-on luggage has been banned and with few exceptions nothing may be brought onto planes. This will have major implications for businessmen with laptops and tourists with cameras and other electronic equipment. It's hard to imagine anyone being willing to pack these expensive electronic items in their checked luggage.
I'm unclear how this ban on liquids will be enforced. Once you pass security almost all airports have lots of places that sell sodas, coffee, etc. Does this mean that they be banning the sale of all liquids in airports? What happens to folks with long layovers? They can eat but not drink? We'll see how this plays out.
I think that it is just right for security officials to increase the threat level after the incident that occured in the UK. It is better to be safe than sorry.