I’ve heard the term “security theater” used several times to describe the aviation security system. I’m not completely sure where or who started the term, but it’s worthy of addressing because it seems to get used by various experts and non-experts whenever the media needs a quick sound bite. But, let’s take a hard look [...]

Filed under: Overview of Aviation Security | 1 Comment »

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal (Feb 17, 2009) pointed out that the Obama Administration is considering changes to airport security procedures. The usual suspects weighed in with their opinions and I’m sure there is no lack of opinions amongst the general public about what should and should not be done with aviation [...]

Filed under: Overview of Aviation Security | No Comments »

A recent article in the New York Times discussed the issue of profiling. Click here for the article. Essentially, the article concluded that strong profiling is not effective at detecting malfeasors (people who want to do bad things). Therefore, why profile at all? The article also suggested an alternative mathematical method that may have more [...]

Filed under: Introduction to Screening | 2 Comments »

With the mantra, “in the name of homeland security,” still frequently being hauled out to justify both good and bad ideas, let’s look at the latest measures proposed by the TSA – the Large Aircraft Security Program.  Many who do not own private aircraft have no problem at all with the government restricting their use. However, let’s [...]

Filed under: General Aviation Aircraft Operator Security, General Aviation Airport Security | No Comments »