November
9, 2003
Edinburgh Airport Fails Security Test
Edinburgh Airport
has failed a recent undercover Government security test, it emerged tonight.
Plain clothes officers from the UK
Department of Transport got their bags, containing what one newspaper described
as two “bomb-like” objects, past security staff and X-ray machines.
The Daily Record reported that the
devices had been hidden inside a laptop computer and a hairdryer before being
put into luggage for the test last month, which handles almost seven million
passengers a year, is part of the British Airports Authority, which also runs
Glasgow, Aberdeen, Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Southampton. Airport bosses
promised to tighten security four years ago after explosives, guns and knives
were carried undetected through checkpoints in a similar operation by Transport
Department staff.
Tonight a spokesman for BAA in Scotland said security at all UK terminals was tested “regularly and rigorously”, using
constantly updated methods, with the support of the industry.
“Test results are only one of
many control measures used to improve and enhance security systems across the
airport,” he added.
“Airport security is more than
metal detectors and personal searches.
“There are many layers, including
100% hold baggage screening, and close cooperation with the police and control
authorities to identify specific threats.
“We never comment on specific
details of security processes other than to say that this area is given the
highest priority at all times.
“Since September 11, 2001, BAA
has confiscated nearly 13 million items which are not permitted on board
aircraft.”
