Poor Cargo Screening is U.S. Aviations Biggest Security Threat

Observations noted that while the Aviation & Transportation Security Act of 2001 requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to have systems in place to ensure the security of cargo on all-cargo aircraft that is not taking place. In fact, it is claimed that just 5% of passenger aircraft belly freight is screened. As for all-cargo aircraft, the TSA doesn’t inspect, relying instead on the Known Shipper program.

In its latest efforts at screening of passengers and their luggage for explosives, the TSA deployed for field testing of checked baggage, Reveal Explosives Detection Systems at three airports: Gulfport-Biloxi, Newark Liberty and John F. Kennedy International.

Explosives detection trace portals for screening passengers have been installed at San Francisco International, San Diego, Tampa, John F. Kennedy International, Baltimore, Las Vegas, Miami, Gulfport-Biloxi, Jacksonville, Providence, Rochester and Phoenix.