TSA Considers Additional Security Measures for Airport Employees

The Department of Homeland Security is considering additional security measures for airport and airline employees. The announcement comes just weeks after five people were arrested in a gun-smuggling operation involving passenger jets traveling between Atlanta and New York City. TSA Officials say additional security measures could include enhanced airline-employee screenings, random security checks, and additional TSA and law enforcement patrols in secure areas. Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson, who helped lead the investigation into the gun-smuggling case in Atlanta, said in a statement that he is glad federal officials are looking to improve airport security, but added that 'the devil is in the details.' 'I look forward ... to hearing more from DHS and TSA on the necessary steps that they will take to protect the American public,' he said. Following the gun-smuggling arrest, the Hartsfield-Jackson airport has increased random inspections and its police presence, airport spokesman Reese McCranie said in a statement. McCranie said airport officials are working with federal authorities 'on a daily basis to enhance our security posture, and we plan to announce further changes soon.'