ATLANTA – Federal officials announced new measures at airports nationwide aimed enhancing security.
The new measures were announced after Friday’s thwarted terror plot in which authorities discovered two “explosive packages” on U.S.-bound cargo flights.
Although Friday’s plot involved cargo flights, authorities are taking no chances, stepping up security at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and airports nationwide. Federal authorities briefed officials at the Georgia Emergency Management Agency about the terror threat, according to media reports.
“As a precaution, DHS has taken a number of steps to enhance security. Some of these security measures will be visible while others will not,” the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement. “The public may recognize specific enhancements including heightened cargo screening and additional security at airports.
“Passengers should continue to expect an unpredictable mix of security layers that include explosives trace detection, advanced imaging technology, canine teams and pat downs, among others,” DHS said. “As always, we remind the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.”
Meanwhile, the TSA previously said it is “in the process of implementing new pat-down procedures at checkpoints nationwide as one of our many layers of security to keep the traveling public safe.”
“Pat-downs are one important tool to help TSA detect hidden and dangerous items such as explosives,” the TSA said in a statement. “Passengers should continue to expect an unpredictable mix of security layers that include explosives trace detection, advanced imaging technology, canine teams, among others.”
