Airports: Plane Observation Decoded

The practice of plane spotting, or observing and tracking aircraft, has been a popular hobby for aviation enthusiasts since the second half of the 20th century. While some airports have closed their observation decks due to security concerns and revenue pressures post-9/11, there are still several airports around the world that offer great viewing experiences for plane spotters. These include outdoor decks, indoor galleries, and even restaurants and lounges with tarmac views.

In the United States, airports such as San Francisco International Airport, Albuquerque International Sunport, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Gerald R. Ford International Airport, and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport offer dedicated observation areas. Additionally, some airline lounges, such as the Delta Air Lines Sky Clubs in Atlanta and JFK, provide outdoor decks for their customers.

Outside of the US, plane spotters can enjoy fantastic viewing opportunities at airports such as Zurich Airport in Switzerland, Munich Airport in Germany, Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports in Japan, and Incheon Airport in South Korea. Honolulu International Airport in Hawaii is also a great spot for plane spotting, as travelers can watch planes come and go from the open-air terminal buildings.

While the practice of plane spotting and the availability of observation decks vary across airports, it remains a thrilling hobby for aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

Observation decks and security concerns

Observation decks have been a common feature of airports since the 1960s. However, in the wake of the September 11 attacks, many airports closed their observation decks due to security concerns. The pressure to generate revenue has also contributed to the decline of observation decks, as airports have sought to repurpose the space for revenue-generating concessions.

The closure of observation decks has been a disappointment to aviation enthusiasts, who enjoy the thrill of watching planes take off and land. Planespotters, as they are called, often record information about airports, air traffic control communications, airline routes, and more. In some cases, information collected by planespotters has even helped uncover extraordinary rendition by the CIA.

Despite the security concerns and pressure to generate revenue, some airports in the United States have retained their observation decks. These include New York's Albany International Airport, Albuquerque International Sunport, and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Additionally, there are a few new observation decks and viewing terraces being built at U.S. airports, indicating a possible resurgence of this feature.

Outside of the United States, airports in Europe and Asia have also maintained or added observation decks. Munich Airport, Zurich Airport, Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports, and South Korea's Incheon Airport are among the dozens of airports in these regions with outdoor decks that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

While the security concerns surrounding observation decks are understandable, it is encouraging to see that some airports are finding ways to balance security with the joy of plane spotting. This includes implementing guidelines and codes of conduct for planespotters, such as asking enthusiasts to contact the police if they see or hear something suspicious. By fostering a cooperative relationship between enthusiasts and law enforcement, airports can improve security while still allowing people to enjoy the magic of flying.

The history of airport security

Airport security has evolved over the years, from simple protection against conventional crimes to addressing more complex threats such as terrorism and hijackings. Here is a detailed history of airport security:

The Early Years:

The early 20th century witnessed significant aviation developments, with new planes and technologies entering service. During World War I, aircraft proved their effectiveness as military tools, and post-war, air travel increased, leading to the establishment of major domestic airlines. However, airport security during this period was relatively simple, relying on civilian police forces to address theft, vandalism, and similar crimes.

The 1960s:

In the 1960s, civil aviation became a target for politically motivated crimes, including terrorism and aircraft hijackings. The first aircraft hijacking occurred in 1931 in Peru, but it was in the 1960s that hijackings, especially to Cuba, became more common. This prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to deploy incognito air marshals on commercial flights and implement security measures such as armed guards and metal detectors.

The 1970s:

The threat of hijackings continued into the 1970s, with several bombs detonated on board commercial flights, leading to crashes. In response, the FAA initiated its canine program and mandated the inspection of all passengers by armed guards or metal detectors. Additionally, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) played a crucial role in establishing international conventions to combat hijackings and terrorism, recommending enhanced security measures at airports worldwide.

The 1980s:

The infamous Lockerbie bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 in 1988 marked a significant turning point. A bomb concealed in a cassette player brought down the plane, killing all 259 people on board. This incident led to the widespread implementation of X-ray scanning of all luggage by US airport security.

Post-9/11:

The September 11 attacks in 2001 marked a pivotal moment in the history of airport security. Hijacked airliners were used as destructive weapons, leading to unprecedented destruction and loss of life. This event led to the creation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US, tasked with preventing similar attacks and tightening security measures. The TSA introduced uniform policies, such as limiting liquids to 3 oz, implementing body scanners, and enhancing screening procedures.

Ongoing Enhancements:

Airport security continues to evolve, with the use of advanced technology such as computed tomography, walk-through body scanning, and artificial intelligence systems. The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges, with an increase in violent assaults on Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the need to address issues such as racial profiling and the treatment of marginalised groups during security checks. The TSA is working towards enhancing security while respecting the rights and dignity of all travellers.

Airport security measures and technologies

Physical Security Measures

• Perimeter Security: Airports implement measures to secure their perimeters, such as fencing, lighting, and intrusion detection systems. This helps prevent unauthorised access and protect against potential threats.
• Access Control: Airports restrict access to sensitive areas like ramps and operational spaces. These areas require special qualifications or clearance to enter, and access is monitored to prevent unauthorised entry.
• Law Enforcement Presence: Depending on the country, airport security may be handled by a dedicated airport police force, a branch of the local police, or a combination of both. They conduct patrols, respond to incidents, and maintain a visible presence to deter potential threats.
• Security Screening: Airports utilise metal detectors, advanced imaging technology, and X-ray machines to screen passengers and their carry-on and checked baggage. This helps detect prohibited items, weapons, and explosives.
• Passenger Profiling: Some airports, like Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, use passenger profiling techniques, including racial profiling, to identify potential threats. This approach has been controversial due to civil rights concerns.
• Canine Units: Police dog services are employed for explosive detection, drug detection, and other security purposes.

Technological Advancements

• Biometrics: Airports are increasingly using biometrics for identity verification during security checks. This includes technologies such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning.
• Credential Authentication Technology (CAT): This technology ensures the real-time authentication of travel documents, reservation verification, and pre-screening status at security checkpoints.
• Automated Screening Lanes (ASLs): ASLs are state-of-the-art technologies that enhance security efficiency while reducing the time travellers spend during the security screening process.
• Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT): AIT, such as millimetre wave scanners, allows for the detection of metallic and non-metallic threats without physical contact. It protects passenger privacy by using generic outlines instead of specific images.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is being leveraged for various purposes, including translation services, optimising aircraft turnaround times, and intelligent video analytics for security.
• Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS): Technologies like Aaronia AARTOS are deployed to counter the malicious use of drones or UAVs in and around airports.
• Health and Safety Measures: Airports have implemented measures to address hygiene and public health concerns, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes enhanced sanitation practices, particularly for frequently touched surfaces.

The impact of 9/11 on airport security

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, had a profound impact on airport security, leading to dramatic increases in security measures and changing the airport experience for travellers worldwide.

One of the most noticeable changes for passengers has been the introduction of stricter and tighter security checks. These include mandatory baggage checks, metal screenings, and restrictions on carrying potential weapons onboard. Airports have also implemented regulations against objects that could be used as weapons, with some airports even banning certain types of scissors and nail clippers.

Another significant change has been the increased presence of security personnel and law enforcement officers at airports. Many airports have established dedicated security teams, such as the Airport Watch groups in North America, which work in collaboration with local police departments and federal agencies like the FBI and TSA. These groups provide training to members, teaching them to accurately identify and report unusual or suspicious activities around airport perimeters.

Additionally, airports have adopted advanced technologies to enhance security. For example, some airports have started using biometric identification, such as facial recognition technology, for passenger screening and border control. This technology helps identify potential security threats and streamline the passenger processing experience.

The impact of 9/11 also extended to the design and layout of airports. Airports began separating landside and airside zones, with access to the airside zone being tightly controlled. This meant that passengers and staff had to undergo security checks before entering the area closest to the aircraft. Airports also introduced jet bridges or airstairs to provide controlled access to aircraft, reducing the risk of unauthorised access.

Furthermore, the events of 9/11 led to increased information sharing and collaboration between airports and authorities worldwide. Airports became more vigilant in reporting suspicious activities, and there was a greater emphasis on gathering and analysing data related to aircraft movements. This information sharing played a crucial role in uncovering the CIA's practice of extraordinary rendition, where individuals were transferred to secret detention sites.

Overall, the impact of 9/11 on airport security was transformative, leading to heightened security measures, increased security personnel, advanced technologies, redesigned airport layouts, and enhanced information sharing on a global scale. These changes have significantly shaped the airport experience for travellers, reflecting a new era of heightened security awareness in the aviation industry.

Airport police and fire safety crews

Airport Police

Airport police units are a security agency that performs law enforcement functions at airports. They are responsible for patrol, investigation, traffic flow management, and emergency response. They can be found at security gates, throughout the terminal, and around the airport perimeter. Airport police officers are often cross-trained in fire safety, emergency medical services, and even military units. They support federal security directives, enforce airport rules and regulations, and assist with traffic and crowd control.

Airport Fire and Rescue Service

Airport fire and rescue services provide critical emergency services in the event of an aircraft incident or accident. They are trained in firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical response. They work closely with other first responders, such as police and emergency medical services, to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.

Specialized Teams

To meet the diverse safety needs of airports, specialized teams are deployed within the airport police and fire departments. These teams include investigations, explosives ordnance disposal, K-9 units, drug interdiction, and water rescue. They are composed of highly skilled officers selected based on merit and are prepared to handle a wide range of emergencies.

International Variations

The structure and responsibilities of airport police and fire safety crews can vary internationally. For example, in India, airport security is handled by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), while in Indonesia, it is managed by the Indonesian National Police and "Aviation Security" (AVSEC) personnel. In Singapore, airport police functions are carried out by the Airport Police Division (APD) under the Singapore Police Force (SPF).

Frequently asked questions