Leo Bicknell wrote:
On Thu, Sep 13, 2001 at 07:34:00AM -0400, Robert Hough wrote:
Yes, just like the tragedy that occured on Tuesday. They used a well known exploit in our system. Could we have stopped them with better security? It doesn't matter - preventing from happening again, is what matters to me.
The problem I have with all of the FAA action is that anyone with a valid rating can rent a plane, even planes this large if they have enough money. I would guess the hijackers wanted a plane full of people for additional shock value, but obtaining an empty (but full of fuel) plane would be even easier for them, and almost no FAA security measures would stop them. Additionally, on a private plane they could load on it explosive cargo without too much effort, adding even more punch to the process.
I do believe we need to figure out how these planes were hijacked, and take steps to prevent it from happening again. That said, I find it highly unlikely that eliminating curbside checkin will have any effect other than to inconvenience travelers.
Interesting comments on radio today in the UK. An editor for a 'flight' magazine who specialises safety and ops says that the US you guys tend to treat getting on an internal flight a bit like us Brits treat getting on a bus. ie quick and last minute. Also he said that you can carry legally a 7 inch knife in your luggage on internal flights. Now from various reports I've seen the hijackers where armed with knives and 'claimed' to have bombs - no mention of firearms. I think that this will change and the 1997 recommendations on flight safety could well be implemented on domestic fights too. What impact could this have....less travelling and more electronic (video) meetings perhaps, which IMO is could 'cos long distance travel can be a real drag. just my 2 pence worth... -- Martin Hepworth Senior Systems Administrator Solid State Logic Ltd +44 (0)1865 842300 ********************************************************************** This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. This footnote also confirms that this email message has been swept by MIMEsweeper for the presence of computer viruses. www.mimesweeper.com **********************************************************************