Level Orange -- Threat "Perhaps Greater Now Than Ever"

"Information indicates that extremists abroad are anticipating near-term attacks that they believe will rival or exceed the scope and impact of those we experienced in New York, at the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania more than two years ago."

Those words came from Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge Sunday, as he raised the threat assessment level from yellow to orange. It was the first time since May 20th that the government's terror threat indicator has been so high.

"Recent reporting," said Ridge, "reiterates that al-Qaida continues to consider using aircraft as a weapon. They are evaluating procedures both here and abroad to find gaps in our security posture that can be exploited."

Ridge said American intelligence agencies "received a substantial increase in the volume of threat-related intelligence reports. These credible sources suggest the possibility of attacks against the homeland around the holiday season and beyond. These strategic indicators, including al-Qaida's continued desire to carry out attacks against our homeland, are perhaps greater now than at any point since Sept 11."

Ridge has scheduled a news conference for Monday to further explain the warning.

What It Means At The Airport

Parking -- Parking at airports will be impacted.  The amount of parking spaces may be reduced and/or there may be increased random inspections of vehicles in and around the airport facility.
Increased Law Enforcement Officers Presence -- TSA working with airport and local law enforcement officers will increase the number of patrols of local law enforcement officers throughout airport facility and increased patrols of airport perimeters.

Checkpoints at Airports -- TSA screeners are always on a heightened state of alert and continue to perform at that level.  

Screening Checked-Luggage for Explosives -- TSA is already screening 100% of all checked-luggage for explosives and has been since December 31, 2002.

Checking Airport IDs -- TSA has advised air carriers to review and ensure the validity of all personnel IDs for those who have access to secure areas.

Delays -- Due to the changes with parking procedures as well as other increased security procedures TSA recommends that passengers allow themselves plenty of extra time to make your flight.

NOTE: We've also been informed that heightened restrictions will be in force for the "DC-3" (CGS, VKX & W32), effective 0600, 12/22/03.

FMI: www.dhs.gov