The Transportation Security Administration has a gift for you this Independence Day—more pat downs and longer lines.
The Department of Homeland Security has instructed the TSA to use “enhanced security measures” in overseas airports with flights directly to the United States starting this weekend. The ramped up security is the result of Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove’s concern over potential attacks involving al Qaeda affiliated terrorists using Western passports.
“DHS continually assesses the global threat environment and reevaluates the measures we take to promote aviation security,” said DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson. “We will work to ensure these necessary steps pose as few disruptions to travelers as possible.”
Discount travel companies Expedia, Priceline, and CheapOair have all reported a rise in the number of Americans flying over Fourth of July weekend as compared to last year. Combine that fact with increased security measures and you might want to consider getting to the airport earlier than usual.
“Aviation security includes a number of measures, both seen and unseen, informed by an evolving environment,” Johnson said. “As always, we will continue to adjust security measures to promote aviation security without unnecessary disruptions to the traveling public.”
So if you’re traveling for the Fourth of July weekend, enjoy the extra attention from the TSA.
