For Release: Wednesday, January 16, 2002
Contact: David Gillies, 202.225.5661

COSTELLO APPLAUDS AVIATION SECURITY PROGRESS

WASHINGTON - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today commended Transportation Secretary Mineta for the progress he reported in implementing the aviation security bill passed by Congress last November. Mineta emphasized the Transportation Security Administration would meet a Friday deadline to screen all checked baggage for explosives in a speech to the Transportation Research Board.

"It is important that the American people see that every effort is being made to tighten security at our nation's airports," said Costello, a member of the House Aviation Subcommittee. "It is good to know that the Transportation Security Administration is working with the airlines to meet the deadlines in the legislation. I am especially pleased with the commitment to hiring trained professionals and putting them in visible roles at airports, not having them manage from behind a desk."

Costello wrote a critical letter to Mineta in December after the Secretary stated that the deadline to check all bags for explosives might not be met. Costello urged using every available means, including the National Guard, to meet the requirement. A combination of explosive detection machines, x-rays, procedures matching each bag to a passenger, manual searches, and bomb-sniffing dogs will be employed.

"As the Secretary said, it will not be a perfect system right away, but it will be an improvement on the current system, and we will improve it further in the days ahead. I am hopeful that airport delays can be kept to a minimum as these security measures are implemented, and that passengers will be as understanding as possible," stated Costello.

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