Homeland Security Warns Air Travelers, Threat Level Not Raised

July 30, 2003

Homeland Security Warns Air Travelers, Threat Level Not Raised
The Department of Homeland Security issued a warning yesterday for U.S. citizens indicating extremist groups may be plotting an airline hijacking this summer, targeting areas including Great Britain, Italy, Austria and the eastern United States. However, with this warning comes skepticism, as Homeland Security did not raise the nation’s threat level.

According to CNN.com, the aviation industry is being encouraged to review security procedures and possibly implement new random screening measures. There is no word on the type of security measures being considered. The Homeland Security advisory indicates that targets could include national historic symbols, economic places and large venues.

In a similar move, the State Department also reissued a worldwide caution yesterday, reminding citizens of the threat of terrorist attacks.

For more on this story, visit CNN.com or the State Department by going to Travel.state.gov. Stay tuned to NTA Online daily for any noteworthy updates on this topic.