Airports Continue to See Major Changes in Security Due to September 11

Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack, airport security has received considerable attention from the government as well expect in the aviation industry. The damages that transpired following the attack have remained fresh in the minds of peace loving citizens. In fact, security has become everybody’s business because a security lapse in the aviation industry paralyzes various sector of the economy. Today, the government has encouraged redesigning of the airport with much consideration given to security. The new concerns in the wake of 9/11 terrorist attack propose integration of security into airport design and planning. Although the airports may not accommodate redesigning of the general layout, critics agree that an adjustment to location of access roads may be useful in achieving the security needs (Transportation Security Administration, 2011).

Assessing Vulnerabilities

Aspects to examine when determining potential vulnerabilities at airports include existing security system. The security system within the airport is critical in defining the possibility of terror or security. Thus, by examining the security in the airport, one would able to detect potential threats. The security system encompasses areas such as security personnel, existing security equipment, security training, policies and procedures directed against the threats. Other potential vulnerabilities include access control mechanism for pedestrians and vehicles entering the airport, airport fencing, and airfield daily inspections.

Boundaries and access points

When assessing boundaries and access points, the designers should consider equipment used at the access points – the identification technology. Initially, airports used metal detectors to identif...

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...ers, landside roads including vehicle inspection stations and road design, landside parking, landside facilities, interior and exterior spaces.

Terminal Elements

Terminal elements for design or modification consideration should include terminal security architecture including functional areas, physical boundaries, bomb analysis areas, limited concealment structures, operational pathways, terminal area infrastructure.

Conclusion

Airport security is critical because it has significant effects of the country’s economy. Design or modification should integrate security measures into airport planning. Such modifications are likely to affect the landside elements, terminal elements, as well as airside elements. The identification of potential vulnerabilities in the airport is instrumental in developing airport design modifications that aim at integrating security needs.