Crime & Safety

Palm Springs Airport, Sheriff's Officials 'Vigilant' In Wake of Brussels Terror Attacks

"The safety of the public is first and foremost on our mind," the Riverside County Sheriff's Department tells Patch.

Terror attacks that left more than 30 dead at a Brussels airport and subway station prompted heightened security measures at transportation hubs across the area Tuesday, including Palm Springs International Airport.

Tom Nolan, airport executive director, said elevated security measures have been put in place in light of the attacks without interrupting air service.

No flights have been canceled or delayed Tuesday.

While airport security was "operating at a stringent level," Nolan said that as far as passengers were concerned, airport operations would be proceeding smoothly.

"We want to assure the general public that we will continue to keep extremely vigilant in implementing security measures that protect the public," he said.

Meanwhile, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department tells Patch they also remain "vigilant."

"The Riverside County Sheriff's Department is saddened by the heartbreaking terrorist attack that occurred in Belgium," the agency said in a statement sent to Patch. "Our thoughts and prayers go out for the victims and those affected by this tragedy. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department will continue to remain vigilant throughout our daily duties. The safety of the public is first and foremost on our minds. We are encouraging the public to join in our efforts and remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to their local law enforcement agencies."

Though the Palm Springs airport won't be making drastic internal changes to security, Nolan said potential mandates from the Federal Aviation Administration or Transportation Security Administration could change things in the coming days.

– City News Service contributed to this report.

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