Aviation Insecurity?

On Dec. 22, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) implements new aviation security procedures, which Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) said should really mean TSA stands for "Take your Scissors Aboard," because passengers will be allowed to carry scissors with cutting edges up to four inches long aboard (see ASW, Dec. 12). The Families of September 11 (FOS11) had this to say about the security changes:

"We are pleased that no knives of any length will be allowed on planes ... We are also encouraged that emphasis will be placed on explosive detection, an area in aviation security that has lagged behind far too long.

"However, the relaxation of rules regarding scissors and tools is a step back in aviation security, a step we cannot afford to take. Terrorists demonstrated the lethal effect of small sharp objects on September 11, 2001, and we must remain vigilant against the use of any weapon, no matter its size.

"Small scissors and tools are currently considered dangerous and are accordingly banned. We see no change that makes them any safer by December 22^nd, when they are scheduled to be allowed on airplanes.

"FOS11 supports congressional efforts to keep the prohibited item list intact to ensure the safety of the flying public. We believe that explosive detection at airport checkpoints is critical to aviation security, but it need not come at the expense of conventional weapon detection."