AbstractThroughout the history of aviation, the importance of airport security has constantly increased. After the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001, numerous changes were made to airports to prevent similar attacks from happening again. The purpose of this document is to: outline airport security procedures, discuss the different technologies involved in airport security, as well as examine the components of airport security. Additionally, I will also discuss the Transportation Security Administration's role in our nation's airport security. Airport Security Airport security is a necessity of life both in America and around the world. Without airport security, our airports would not be able to function and terrorist attacks similar to those of September 11, 2001 would be more common. Passengers would be afraid to fly for fear of a similar terrorist attack happening again. The airline industry would lose more revenue due to lost ticket sales. Then the airports themselves would lose money due to the lack of passengers boarding through their gates. Ultimately, this lack of safety would impact the entire economy, not only in the communities surrounding the airport and the aviation industry, but also the national economy. To prevent this economic failure associated with another terrorist attack from occurring, our nation must take appropriate steps to prevent it. ” Wells and Young (2004, p. 280). For this to happen, airports must become more proactive rather than reactive in the face of possible threats such as: hijackings, explosive devices on planes or any other possible criminal act that could occur on board an aircraft. To achieve this goal, President George W. Bush signed the Aviation and Transportation Security Act into force on November 19, 2001. This act was a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and from this act the Transportation Security Administration was formed. Security Information The purpose of the TSA is to protect all of the nation's transportation systems to ensure the freedom of movement of people and commerce target of terrorists. Since the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, subs...... middle of paper ......from keying to combination locks to advanced identification authentication machines. Security lighting can also be used to facilitate perimeter security. It is located near heavy traffic areas, aircraft service areas and other operations and maintenance areas. Patrolling by airport staff and security, as well as local law enforcement, can also be used to secure the perimeter around an airport. This document has covered the different aspects of airport security. It is important to keep in mind that the procedures, regulations and technology associated with airport security are constantly changing. However, it is through these changes that our nation's airports will show continued improvement toward the safety and security of the passengers who visit them. References Transportation Safety Administration. (February 20, 2004). Capps II in brief. Retrieved from Transportation Security Administration website: http://www.tsa.gov/public/display?theme=5&content0900051980088d91Wells, A. T., & Young, S. B. (2004). Airport security cap. 8. In L. Hagar (ed.), Airport Planning and Management (5 ed., pp. 279-307). New York: McGraw-Hill.