Responds To Times Story About FBI/DHS White Paper On Aviation Security 'Holes'

From the EAA...

EAA is pointedly disagreeing with much of a New York Times story published Monday morning that states a new government report indicates general aviation might be vulnerable to use by terrorists, despite huge investments in aviation security.

The government report, created by the FBI and Department of Homeland Security two weeks ago, states that security upgrades since Sept. 11, 2001, have "reduced, but not eliminated" vulnerabilities in the aviation community.  The Times reports noted possible use of GA aircraft and helicopters by terrorist groups within the security assessment, which was obtained by the newspaper and not released to the public.

"Unfortunately, the New York Times report does not include the many security procedures recommended and added by the general aviation community since 9/11, which included programs for airports, flight schools and individual aircraft," said Doug Macnair, EAA vice president of government relations.  "The story seems to overstate the actual threat of general aviation, which has on many occasions been determined not to be a significant security risk by the same federal agencies quoted in the report."

The story did note that aviation has received the bulk of security attention since 9/11, and other forms of transportation need the same type of enhancements that have already been put in place for aviation.

"We have maintained that the general aviation community is willing to take the steps necessary to safeguard security in proportion to any risk it might present," Macnair said.  "It is crucial, however, to keep that risk in the proper perspective and maintain the proper balance between essential security and the freedom of flight."

FMI: www.eaa.gov