Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff announced a targeted raise in the threat level in light of today’s arrests in the United Kingdom:

1. Threat Level Raised to Code Red or Severe for flights originating in the United Kingdom bound for the United States
2. Threat Level Raised to Code Orange or High for all commercial aviation operating in or destined for the United States.

The adjustment to Red or Severe reflects the Critical, or highest, alert level that has been implemented in the United Kingdom.

“Further, as a precaution against any loose ends in the plot, and against any would-be copy-cats who may be inspired to conduct similar attacks, we will also raise the threat level to High, or Orange, for all domestic commercial aviation and for flights arriving in the United States from overseas.” 

The rest of the country remains at Code Yellow or Elevated.

“We believe that the arrests in Britain have significantly disrupted this threat.  We cannot assume, however, that it has been completely thwarted, or that we have fully identified and neutralized all members of this terrorist network. While there is currently no indication of any plotting within the United States, the federal government is taking immediate steps to increase security measures in the aviation sector.

These measures will continue to assure that our aviation system remains safe and secure. Travelers should go about their plans confidently, while maintaining vigilance in their surroundings and exercising patience with screening and security officials."

FMI: www.dhs.gov, www.tsa.gov