NCJ Number
131374
Journal
Security Management Volume: 35 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1991) Pages: 27-31
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
United Airlines' security department relies heavily on airline ticket agents who are trained to profile passengers and spot stolen tickets or possible terrorists. Skycaps, ticket agents, and ground security coordinators provide security in United's terminals around the world.
Abstract
United spends an average of $9 million a year on security equipment alone; this figure does not include the costs of personnel, training, outside contracts, and physical security. About 2 percent of a passenger's ticket goes to pay for security. United's two-person security department is responsible for ensuring that security is effective. This department must review security issues related to airline operations, implement and explain security regulations, and make recommendations on security equipment and personnel. United has implemented a new training program for skycaps that includes 6 hours of instruction in ticket recognition. The program is designed to facilitate the recognition of stolen tickets or terrorists. Ticket agents are trained to profile passengers, while ground security coordinators are responsible specifically for cargo security. Precautions are also in place to assure aircraft safety; on landing, for example, each plane is searched. All United applicants go through a background check and drug testing. In addition, pilots and flight attendants receive extensive training on what to do in the event of a hijacking or terrorist attack. Emergencies are handled in United's crisis communications center. United always briefs crews going on international trips, and precautions are exercised to detect drug smuggling.