TSA - Articles and news items

A layered approach to security

Issue 3 2010 / 9 June 2010 / Lee Kair, Assistant Administrator for Security Operations, TSA

On December 25, 2009, Umar Faruk Abdulmutallab, a Nigerian citizen, allegedly attempted to detonate an improvised explosive device he smuggled on board Northwest Flight 253. The events of Christmas Day serve as a powerful reminder of the extremes to which terrorists will go to circumvent the enhanced security measures put in place since September 11, 2001. It also highlights that our adversary is adaptive and will engineer around static defenses. To stay ahead of this evolving threat landscape, TSA employs a layered approach to securing the Nation’s transportation systems. While our security checkpoints in airports are the most readily recognisable, we have many other critical layers of security in place to mitigate threats, including intelligence analysis, behaviour detection officers, canine teams, as well as other layers that may be visible and invisible to the public. Each layer alone is capable of stopping a terrorist attack but, in combination, their security value is multiplied, creating a strong, formidable system. A terrorist who has to overcome multiple security layers in order to carry out an attack is more likely to be pre-empted, deterred, or thwarted during – or even before – the attempt. (more…)

TSA checkpoint security technology evolves

Issue 1 2009, Past issues / 7 February 2009 / Robin E. Kane, Acting Assistant Administrator for the Office of Security Technology, TSA

Over the course of 2008, TSA deployed, piloted and tested several technologies that greatly enhanced the screening process for travellers all across the country. The ultimate goal is to create an environment that harmonises a high level of security with the need to ensure freedom of movement for travellers. (more…)

Enhancing aviation security – How TSA is using technology, innovation, and collaboration to redefine screening operations

Issue 1 2008, Past issues / 4 February 2008 / Mike Golden, Assistant Administrator for Operational Process and Technology/Chief Information Officer/Chief Technology Officer, FAA

The fundamental challenge of protecting passengers and transportation networks against an act of terrorism is a constantly changing, unpredictable threat environment. TSA knows that terrorists seek to exploit our weaknesses. We also know that terrorists attempt to adapt to the security measures we put into place. A static, fortress-like defense is not the answer.

While we apply what we learn from intelligence, from attacks of the past, and from other lessons learned around the world, we understand that terrorist activity is fundamentally not predictable in a statistical or actuarial way. We must, therefore, “anticipate the unexpected.” Our security approach must reflect the principles of flexibility, adaptability, and innovation. (more…)