Politics & Government
Plymouth Airport Increases Security
Aviation managers prepare for possible retaliation for Bin Laden killing.
With the news that Osama bin Laden was killed by Nave SEALS, transportation hubs across the country are on alert for possible retaliation and have increased security, including .
"We're certainly hoping that whatever might happen, it won't be aviation-related," Tom Maher, Plymouth Airport manager said.
The state agency that regulates general aviation airports like Plymouth, MassDOT Aeronautics, asked all of the operations under its jurisdiction to increase vigilence Monday.
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"They will come out with further guidelines over the next couple of days," Maher said. "It just makes sense."
According to Maher, Massachusetts ranks in the top five state in the country for general aviation airport security. Within six months of Sept. 1, 2011, Massachusetts tightened requirements for pilot identification and flight training. Pilots must show a photo ID and a pilot's license to get on a runway.
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"If you're a non-American person learning to fly, you'll have to submit a substantial amount of paperwork," Maher said. "The TSA pays regular visits to general aviation airports that have flight schools. They were here last week. They look at all the records of all the students."
Plymouth Airport has a fixed wing and a helicopter flight training schools. In addition to the paperwork, all flight instructors receive training in reading the behavior of potential students to judge their intent.
Beyond the state and federal regulations, general aviation airports such as Plymouth have a built-in security system - community.
"It's a small community of people," Maher said. "Everyone knows everyone. When a transient pilot comes in, it's amazing how fast I get a phone call."
The MBTA has also tightened security at its commuter rail stations, including the terminal at Cordage Park and the Kingston station. Transit Police Chief Paul MacMillan said MBTA Police continue to monitor the situation, "and will be guided by any information or intelligence that is forthcoming. There are no reports of any specific threats at this time. However, in order to reassure the riding public, we will continue our security inspection program and our high visibility patrols in stations and on the trains.
He asked passengers to report any suspicious or unusual behavior to Transit Police at 617-222-1212 or 911, or text tips at 873873.
