10 Aug 2006 17:16
UPDATE 2-US raises threat level for all commercial aircraft
(Updates with details on security threat overall)
By Todd Eastham
WASHINGTON, Aug 10 (Reuters) - The U.S. government said on Thursday it had raised the security threat level for all commercial aviation in coordination with security measures undertaken by Britain, which said earlier in the day it had foiled a plot to bomb aircraft traveling to the United States.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said the threat level for commercial flights originating in the United Kingdom would be raised to "severe," or red, the highest U.S. threat level and an unprecedented move for the United States in its war on terror.
The security threat level for all commercial aircraft operating in or destined for the United States would be raised to "high," or orange, from "elevated," or yellow, Chertoff said in a statement. The threat level for the country as a whole remained at yellow, according to the department's web site.
Homeland Security was taking immediate steps to increase security measures in aviation in coordination with heightened U.K. security precautions, Chertoff said.
"Over the last few hours, British authorities have arrested a significant number of extremists engaged in a substantial plot to destroy multiple passenger aircraft flying from the United Kingdom to the United States," the statement released by the DHS press office said.
British police said they had thwarted a plot to blow up aircraft in mid-flight between Britain and the United States and had arrested more than 15 people.
In response, Britain's security services raised its threat level to "critical" from "severe," the highest of its five ratings, suggesting "an attack is expected imminently."
"Currently, there is no indication ... of plotting within the United States," Chertoff said. "We believe that these arrests have significantly disrupted the threat, but we cannot be sure that the threat has been entirely eliminated or the plot completely thwarted."
"Consistent with these higher threat levels, the Transportation Security Administration is coordinating with federal partners, airport authorities and commercial airlines on expanding the intensity of existing security requirements.
"Due to the nature of the threat revealed by this investigation, we are prohibiting any liquids, including beverages, hair gels, and lotions from being carried on the airplane. This determination will be constantly evaluated and updated when circumstances warrant," the statement said.
"These changes will take effect at 4:00 a.m. local time across the country. Travelers should also anticipate additional security measures within the airport and at screening checkpoints."
If I and others are sceptical then whose fault is that - it isn't mine.
