The Globe story quoted CSIS staff who said that Al Qaeda is known to have considered the use of small aircraft and helicopters for attacks on U.S. soil, and that sports stadiums are a “perfect target” for a Cessna 172 loaded with radiological material and explosives. “The no-fly zones over these stadiums are loosely enforced,” the story says, quoting a CSIS staffer. An FAA official quoted in the story said that GA security efforts were dropped because they “would have cost too much.” A TSA spokesman said, “These [small] planes aren’t a focus for us. …. We don’t have unlimited funds to deal with everything.” The story continues, “Despite concerns expressed about general aviation after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, there are still no safety restrictions on these smaller planes, no metal detectors or screening of luggage. … ‘You can just drive up to your plane, load it with whatever you want and be off in 15 minutes,’ said [a TSA spokesman].”
…Citing “Dirty Bombs” And Stadium Targets…
Key Takeaways:
- Al Qaeda has considered using small general aviation (GA) aircraft for attacks on U.S. soil, identifying sports stadiums as "perfect targets" due to their vulnerability and loosely enforced no-fly zones.
- Despite post-9/11 concerns, general aviation planes still lack security measures such as metal detectors or luggage screening, allowing for unchecked loading and quick departure.
- U.S. security agencies, including the FAA and TSA, have cited prohibitive costs and a lack of focus on small planes as reasons for the absence of stricter GA security.
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