"Congress Brings Airport Security Hearing To Dulles"

Friday, February 17, 2006

Congress Brings Airport Security Hearing To Dulles  
The Associated Press 


Chantilly, Va. (AP) - Dulles Airport is warning of long flight delays and
the inability to handle more passengers unless better baggage screening
systems are put in place. 

After Nine-Eleven, Congress required all checked bags be screened for
explosives. But many of the machines were set up in airport lobbies,
increasing congestion. And workers can screen fewer than 200 bags an hour. 

Congressman Tom Davis says better technology is one solution. At some
airports, the machines are being automated and placed into baggage conveyor
systems beneath the terminal, which allows for quicker screening. 

At a hearing held Friday at Dulles, the head of the Metropolitan Washington
Airports Authority testified they've invested in designing new systems, but
need federal dollars to help pay for installation. The Transportation
Security Administration says Dulles is "very high" on the list for the next
round of funding.


 Do you have an opinion about this story?
Share it with other readers in our CAA Discussion Forums

http://www.californiaaviation.org/dcfp/dcboard.php


*****************************************