|
Airport security to tighten
|
 |
July 25, 1996: 7:18 p.m. ET
Administration orders new procedures including more baggage searches
|
NEW YORK (CNNfn) - President Clinton and Transportation Secretary Federico Pena Thursday said new security measures would be implemented at U.S. airports to improve aviation safety.
Although officials would not discuss any of the specifics of the new security mandates, they did say more luggage searches and pre-flight inspections for international flights would be conducted.
"Whatever needs to be done, we will do it," Clinton said following a meeting with the families of TWA Flight 800.
The president said Vice President Al Gore would be asked to head up a commission that will examine what changes in aviation security procedures need to be made.
That commission is due to report its findings in 45 days. The group will also work on a plan to deploy more high-tech machines capable of detecting new, sophisticated explosives.
"From now on, we will hand search more luggage and screen more bags," Clinton said. "If [the crash of TWA Flight 800] proves to be mechanical failure, additional safety measures may be required. If it proves to be a criminal act, other security steps may be required."
Officials warned the new security steps could increase the amount of money air travelers spend on tickets as well as the time people spend in airports.
"The steps we are taking today and others we may take in the future could increase the inconvenience and the expense of air travel," the president said.
"I want the American people to know that up front. We'll do everything we can to minimize these costs, but the safety and security of the American people must be our top priority."
The president said the families of the victims had complained that there was no specific federal office charged with the responsibility of helping families in tragedies like airline crashes.
He said the Federal Emergency Management Agency has the authority in natural disasters and situations like the bombing of the Oklahoma City federal building.
"That is not the case today with airline crashes," said the president. "I intend to work with Congress to see that it does happen."
Clinton said the families of the victims "are still in a great deal of pain" as the recovery of the bodies progresses. However, he said many had expressed gratitude to him for the effort of government workers, TWA employees and volunteers who have tried to help them.
Marty Salfen, a spokesman for the International Airline Passengers Association based in Dallas, predicted that most travelers will welcome the additional security measures since many are now concerned about the safety of flying.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
