U.S. Department of Transportation
Office of Public Affairs
Washington, D.C.
www.dot.gov/affairs/briefing.htm
News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DOT 95-01
Wednesday, September 12, 2001
Contact: Chet Lunner
Telephone: (202) 366-4570
AIRPORTS TO REMAIN CLOSED, MINETA SAYS
Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta has announced the Federal
Aviation Administration will allow a limited reopening of the nation's
commercial airspace system in order to allow flights that were diverted
yesterday to continue to their original destinations.
The Secretary also announced that the FAA is temporarily extending the
ground stop order imposed yesterday while additional security measures are
being completed.
"Safety is always of paramount importance, and in these extraordinary times
we intend to be vigilant," Mineta said. "We remain committed to resuming
commercial flights as soon as possible.
"As the President said last night, these despicable terrorist attacks have
shaken the foundation of our greatest buildings, but have not shaken the
foundation of this great nation," the Secretary said.
"As America watches the efforts of our heroic emergency responders and
rescue personnel, we keep the victims and their families in our prayers," he
also said.
Mineta said the FAA would permit flights today only in special limited
circumstances. Flights diverted as a result of yesterday's order will be
allowed to continue to their original destination under vastly tightened
security guidelines. Only passengers on the original flights will be allowed
to re-board, and only after airports and airlines have implemented strict
screening measures. Airlines will also be allowed to reposition empty
aircraft, he said.
Mineta said a variety of stepped-up security measures will be instituted at
the airports once they re-open. These measures include:
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A thorough search and security check of all airplanes and airports before passengers are allowed to enter and board aircraft.
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We will discontinue curbside check-in at the airport. We would ask that all passengers go to the ticket counters to check in.
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We will also discontinue off-airport check in. We can no longer
allow passengers to check in for their flights at hotels or other venues. Passengers must check in at the airports.
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We must reserve boarding areas for passengers only. Only ticketed passengers will be allowed to proceed past airport screeners to catch their flights.
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Vehicles near airport terminals will be monitored more closely.
"I know all Americans want us to move as quickly and prudently as possible
to return our transportation system to normal," Mineta said, "and we will as
soon as we can do so safely."
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