	Aviation Security System and Its Vulnerabilities

Even though FAA has increased security procedures as the threat has increased, the domestic and international aviation systems continue to have numerous vulnerabilities. Providing effective security is a complex problem because of the size of the U.S. aviation system, the differences among airlines and airports, and the unpredictable nature of terrorism. In 1993, the Department of Transportation’s Office of the Inspector General also reported weaknesses in security measures dealing with (1) access to restricted airport areas by unauthorized persons and (2) carry-on baggage. Explosives Detection Technology Can Improve Security but Has Limitations

New explosives detection technology will play an important part in improving security, but it is not a panacea. The need to rely on operators to resolve false alarms is a primary reason for this. Although the Gore Commission made recommendations on September 9, no agreement currently exists among all the key players, namely, the Congress, the administration—specifically FAA and the intelligence community, among others—and the aviation industry, on the steps necessary to improve security in the short and long term to meet the threat. Additional copies are $2 each.
Why GAO Did This Study

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO discussed aviation security, focusing on: (1) vulnerabilities in the aviation security system; (2) the availability and limitations of explosives detection technology; and (3) efforts under way to improve aviation security.

What GAO Found

GAO noted that: (1) the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated additional aviation security procedures; (2) effective security is limited by the size of the aviation system, differences among airlines and airports, and the unpredictable nature of terrorism; (3) specific unclassified aviation security weaknesses include unauthorized access to restricted areas of airports and carry-on baggage; (4) explosives detection technology is becoming more widely available, but has limitations, including variable effectiveness, false alarms, the need for human intervention, and decreased performance under field conditions; and (5) Congress, FAA, the intelligence community, and the aviation industry are working together to take action to meet the terrorist threat to aviation security.