New York Times Editorial - A retreat on carry-on liquids
New York Times Editorial - A retreat on carry-on liquids
Copyright by The New York Times
Published: September 27, 2006
The U.S. government's relaxation of the rules for carrying liquids and gels aboard airplanes is being greeted with sighs of relief by many American passengers, airlines, airports and businesses. But we wish we could be confident that the Transportation Security Administration was not simply trying to placate airlines and other businesses concerned about possible loss of revenues.
The new rules that went into effect Tuesday allow passengers to carry liquids in 3-ounce containers provided they all fit in a single quart- sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag. The rules also permit passengers to carry aboard beverages and other items purchased in the secure area of the airport.
The head of the TSA said the near total ban was no longer needed because extensive testing by the FBI and others had found that small containers don't pose a real threat and because items bought in the airport's secure area have already been screened on the way in.
But it would seem relatively easy for a small group of terrorists to combine their liquids after all have passed through security checkpoints. And one has to wonder whether a corrupt worker or terrorist might find a way to sneak a liquid bomb into the secure area despite enhanced surveillance and background checks.
It is disquieting that a former inspector general of the Department of Homeland Security declared himself "skeptical" that such a determination had been made. A safer course of action would retain the near total ban on liquids and let the airlines supply passengers with ample beverages.
Copyright by The New York Times
Published: September 27, 2006
The U.S. government's relaxation of the rules for carrying liquids and gels aboard airplanes is being greeted with sighs of relief by many American passengers, airlines, airports and businesses. But we wish we could be confident that the Transportation Security Administration was not simply trying to placate airlines and other businesses concerned about possible loss of revenues.
The new rules that went into effect Tuesday allow passengers to carry liquids in 3-ounce containers provided they all fit in a single quart- sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag. The rules also permit passengers to carry aboard beverages and other items purchased in the secure area of the airport.
The head of the TSA said the near total ban was no longer needed because extensive testing by the FBI and others had found that small containers don't pose a real threat and because items bought in the airport's secure area have already been screened on the way in.
But it would seem relatively easy for a small group of terrorists to combine their liquids after all have passed through security checkpoints. And one has to wonder whether a corrupt worker or terrorist might find a way to sneak a liquid bomb into the secure area despite enhanced surveillance and background checks.
It is disquieting that a former inspector general of the Department of Homeland Security declared himself "skeptical" that such a determination had been made. A safer course of action would retain the near total ban on liquids and let the airlines supply passengers with ample beverages.
posted by Carlos T Mock @ 7:10 AM
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