The horrific attacks in Brussels and Istanbul are stark reminders that much work must be done to protect the vulnerable front side of airports. It appears that ISIS and others have identified this vulnerability and are successfully exploiting it. Tactics used in Istanbul were different than those used in Brussels, and they were able to defeat Turkish security – demonstrating a threat that learns from its experiences.
The front side of an airport was never designed for security, and most airports in the world are oriented towards the passenger experience and ease of transit to the check-in area. This area is typically the least protected and has minimal security presence and technologies. The obligation to protect travelers and employees here is a shared responsibility, with most of the responsibility residing with the airport authority, its police, or private security groups, which are typically undermanned and under budgeted. At some international airports, military and national law enforcement agencies provide the front-side protection. Regardless of where the responsibility lies, an armed presence is an absolute necessity, but that responsibility comes at an enormous cost.
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