The horrific attacks that took place on September 11, 2001, will be remembered not only by Americans, but by people around the world who watched in sorrow as thousands died in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
More than twenty years later, the memories of that tragic day still echo, and we honor the sacrifices made by first responders, private security, the national guard, citizens aboard Flight 93, and many more.
In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, the security industry began to ask how terrorists were able to perform this attack, and how we could prevent similar attacks in the future. The United States government mobilized to develop a framework for domestic security at a level that had never before been seen in the U.S.
In November 2001, President George W. Bush signed the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, which established the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Two years later, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was founded, combining several different agencies that had previously operated independently into one, cabinet-level department.
In addition to general increased domestic and transportation security, based on the methodology of the terrorist attack, specific security measures were developed. For example, the hijackers passed through airport security on 9/11 carrying various concealed weapons on their persons and in their luggage. Today, all travelers passing through American airports are screened, and their luggage is checked for both metallic and non-metallic threats using advanced security tech and more than 52,000 security officers.
In the 23 years since the TSA’s inception, they have continued to support and integrate advancing security technology. Computed Tomography (CT) scanners create a high-quality three-dimensional scan of each piece of luggage, allowing TSA officers to more thoroughly check carry-ons without having to manually check bags. Similarly, millimeter wave Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) produces a three-dimensional scan of passengers to detect any potential concealed weapons on a person, while also reducing the need for hand-checking.
Always looking to improve security, TSA is currently investigating the implementation of biometrics in the screening process. You may have noticed in recent trips to the airport a biometric scan to identify passengers at the entrance checkpoint. TSA is investigating this use, alongside other emerging technologies, to further understand operational impact, security gains, and policy implications.
We will never forget the tragedy that took place on September 11, 2001, but with continued vigilance, advancement, and dedication to security, we can work together for never again.
