US aviation system remains major terrorist threat
The US’s aviation system remains the “no. 1 target for terrorism,” according to Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff.
His remarks came at a time when the US Congress and government officials are debating port safety after the Bush government tried to allow a Dubai maritime company to take over control of six US ports.
Whatever the outcome of that debate, which has turned many Republican politicians against Bush, the Homeland Secretary’s remarks were a reminder that US officials view air terrorism as more pressing than threats to US ports.
Mr Chertoff also warned his agency might have to cut spending on security if fee increases for passengers are not increased.
Homeland Security has proposed doubling the $2.50 security tax paid by passengers on non-stop flights.
“I know there’s a lot of skepticism as to whether we can get Congress to pass a fee or not,” he told USA Today. But he added most people are probably willing to pay more for safety.
Without the fee, the Transportation Security Administration will need to fill a $1 billion gap in its budget.
After the US Congress last year rejected the fee increase, the number of screeners was cut back.
That could happen again if the measure is not passed, Mr Chertoff reminded.
The Air Transport Association has opposed the increase. The group, which represents most major US airlines, says the move will damage the already-ailing airline industry. The association called for improved efficiency in security operations.
Mr Chertoff in a newspaper interview also pushed for the controversial Secure Flight program. The program allowing the government to verify passengers’ identities has been put on hold because of privacy concerns.
Another government program, Registered Traveler, is set to begin in June. The program lets passengers pay a fee of up to $100 and agree to background checks.
Registered Travelers will be able to go through specially designed security checks faster than regular passengers.
Report by David Wilkening
David
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