ABSTRACT
As discussed in the previous chapter, the U.S. strategy for aviation security is built upon a general risk management framework and applies a multilayered approach to mitigating security risks. This framework recognizes that terrorist threats and other threats to aviation security cannot be completely eliminated. However, through effective management and allocation of security resources and available technologies, these risks can be managed and the threat suffi ciently mitigated to what most would regard as acceptable levels. Of course, what constitutes an acceptable level of risk has been a matter of considerable policy debate. However, most concede that, given limited resources, policy decisions based on perceived risk are necessary, not only within the context of aviation security by itself but also in the broader context of homeland and national security. That is, at the broadest level of policy decision-making, trade-offs between aviation security and other homeland security priorities-such as port security, border security, critical infrastructure protection, and detection and prevention of CBRNE attacks against major population centers and other critical targets-must be evaluated. While the focus of this book is the evaluation and mitigation of security risks in the aviation domain, the risk evaluation and mitigation concepts discussed here may be applicable to risk evaluation processes carried out in the broader context of homeland security policy.
