Official Statement of the Governor on Heightened Airport Security

Official Statement of the Governor on Heightened Airport Security

As Vermonters have heard, British authorities have arrested at least 21 individuals alleged to be plotting to detonate liquid explosives onboard multiple commercial aircraft bound for the United States from the United Kingdom.

Vermont's Department of Homeland Security, working closely with our federal partners, is monitoring this situation very closely.

While there is currently no indication of any plotting anywhere in Vermont, or within the United States, the federal government has taken immediate steps to increase aviation security.

In light of the nature of the liquid explosive devices designed by the plotters, federal officials have temporarily banned all liquids in carry-on luggage. These measures are inconvenient, but are appropriate in light of the nature of this threat.

I want to stress that air travel is safe, and air travel will remain safe, because of the vigilance of law enforcement agencies and the measures that have been implemented today.

Vermonters who are traveling by air in the coming weeks can minimize this inconvenience by taking the following steps:

Pack lightly, without clutter to facilitate easier screening Arrive earlier than usual at the airport Cooperate with TSA personnel at checkpoints and with airline personnel at all gates

As always, Vermonters should remain aware and vigilant, and report any activity they deem suspicious to law enforcement agencies.

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