ABSTRACT
Sometimes the most basic measures can prevent real tragedy from happening. However, sometimes the most basic measures are often overlooked or under utilized. Basic physical security equipment consists of three items: locks, lights, and alarms. The three basic lines of physical defense at an airport are the following:
Perimeter (fence around the airport)• Buildings (the terminal and collateral buildings, both interior and exterior, including the • runways, taxiways, and their surrounds) Aircraft (the airplane and jet way)•
The degree of security required will determine exactly just how sophisticated these three options and areas need to be. For example, at airports, access to the sterile concourse is not controlled only at the security checkpoint. Access to jetways, restricted areas, and the airport itself require some consideration. When considering interior security, the airport security professional must address not only sterile concourses, but also doors, windows, ducts, and any other openings large enough for someone to go through. The initial step in any risk assessment program is to determine where the airport is most vulnerable and assess the likelihood that its security will be breached at that point. Each area identified as a problem area requires an appropriate degree of attention, depending on its criticality and vulnerability. Access control is always a primary issue.
