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Examine airline security
November 17, 2002
Web posted at: 10:12 PM EST (0312 GMT)
Overview: Security guards overpowered an Israeli Arab as he attempted to hijack an El Al flight en route
from Tel Aviv to Istanbul on Sunday.
Have students read "Attempted hijacking on Israeli airliner foiled" and answer the following questions:
1. What is the name of Israel's national airline? When and where did the most recent hijacking attempt of an El Al plane take place? How was the hijacker thwarted? What types of security measures does El Al use?
2. Inform students that the attacks on the World Trade Center buildings and the Pentagon have impacted airlines and airport security measures in the U.S. and throughout the world. Refer students to the links below, and other online resources, to learn about how the September 11 attacks have affected commercial airlines and airport security in the U.S. and other parts of the world. After students present their findings, point out that, Issy Boim, President of Air Security International, Inc., states that, "The solution for the future is to provide centralized security for all U.S. airports and actually dictate security measures for all airports in the world." Have students consider the benefits and drawbacks of Boim's plan. Then, challenge students to draw upon their research to determine which airport and airline security measures they would like to see included in a universal aviation security plan.
3. Does flying bother you? If so, why? Do you have concerns about air safety? Explain. Point out to students that in spite of the press coverage that airplane hijackings and air crashes receive, flying is still statistically one of the safest ways to travel. Use this opportunity to have students investigate the accident and fatality statistics related to different modes of travel (plane, car, ship, train) and share their findings. What accounts for each mode's statistics? How can travelers assist in making their journeys safe in each case?
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