Aviation Security: Commerically Available Advanced Explosives Detection Devices

摘要

In August and September 1996, we testified on aviation security issues before the211u001eSenate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and provided the Committee 211u001ewith information about devices that were currently available or under development 211u001efor detecting explosives and the devices' operational capabilities. As requested, 211u001ewe are providing you with updated information on the advanced explosives 211u001edetection devices that are commercially available and can be used to screen 211u001echecked baggage, carry-on items, passengers, and cargo and mail. You also asked 211u001ethat we review the financial, airport-related, and operational issues associated 211u001ewith deploying detection technology at U.S. airports. Many security initiatives 211u001ehave been undertaken since the July 1996 crash of TWA Flight 800. In its final 211u001ereport of February 1997, the Gore Commission said that it expected that the 211u001eNational Civil Aviation Review Commission would consider a variety of options to 211u001epay for security measures; a report on funding is expected to be made in the fall 211u001eof 1997. In addition, FAA has directed that the contractors installing the 211u001eexplosive detection devices gather data on the effect that deploying these 211u001edevices has on airport-related and operational issues. As discussed with your 211u001eoffice, we agreed to reassess the need for us to do further work on the financial 211u001eand operational issues associated with deploying detection technology at U.S. 211u001eairports on the basis of the final outcome of these two initiatives.