The world is treading in murky waters these days with multiple geopolitical conflicts raging, elections looming and radicalism on the rise. What is the way forward and through these painful, inexplicable conflicts? Is there a way forward? I don’t consider myself a pessimist or an optimist but a realist. However, I do have faith in humanity and that we will eventually find ways to, if not resolve our differences, then to learn to agree to disagree in a healthy way. So, I am optimistic that we can find ways to coexist peacefully on this beautiful planet we call home. But as a realist, I know there are no easy answers and to move forward, good fences are needed (both literal and figurative).
In this issue we have returning to share his views, Philip Baum, former editor of Aviation Security International and currently visiting professor of aviation security at Coventry University and managing director of his own company, Green Light. At the end of last year, Baum explored the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks against Israel, where 1,200 men, women and children — including 46 Americans and citizens of more than 30 countries — were killed, and their impact on transportation security. You can read that piece in our Winter 23/24 issue.
In this issue, Baum takes a look at the threat to transportation security (focusing on aviation, specifically), from six specific areas. Those areas include industry insiders; operations in/over conflict zones; the intentional hijacking and/or bombing of aircraft/airports; inadvertent carriage of explosives on board aircraft; disruption due to protests; and unruly passenger incidents as a result of conflict between passengers and/or crew.
Baum acknowledges the seemingly impossible task of ending the conflict and at the same time helps bring focus to the things we, as transportation security professionals, can do to improve the safety of the traveling public. To that end, we also have stories in this issue looking at areas we can control and in which we can make improvements. His story begins on page 14.
Writer Mark Robins explores explosive detection systems and the crucial role they play in ensuring public safety by preventing these kinds of attacks. The requirements for fast, consistent and reliable detection that is economical and easily deployable are hard to meet but there are companies using technology to make efficient detection possible. Explosive detection has evolved from basic X-ray and metal detectors to advanced systems utilizing AI/ML, radiofrequency (RF) waves and Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS). He spoke to leaders in the field to see what they offer and what is coming. His story starts on page 22.
Next, we take a look at computer-based training for security professionals. Their training will determine the quality of their work, and we rely on these screeners to stay vigilant to anything that could be found artfully concealed in the thousands of bins and bags they review weekly. These training programs are used by major international airports, national authorities and security companies to help their baggage screeners get and stay proficient in detecting cleverly hidden contraband. Companies are using multiple methods to keep online students engaged, motivated and that enhance retention. Customization is also a key element. Learn more starting on page 26.
We also have an excerpt from a new book called “ZERO POINT FOUR,” a new book exploring how the U.S. ended up with less than 0.4% of the ocean-going commercial ships on the seas and what it should do to correct this weakness.
This work looks at five principles: national, economic, energy and food, climate, and workforce security and the implications of this stark truth from a security perspective. From shortages in military support vessels to threats against U.S.-dollar-denominated trade, and from insufficient numbers of U.S. mariners for food and energy security to the urgent need for climate-resilient maritime operations, the book breaks each issue down to its root causes. We will be featuring excerpts from the book’s introduction in this and future issues. See that excerpt on page 32.
Next, as you may have heard, cyber hackers are using every tool at their disposal to attack the transportation industry. Writer Karon Warren gives an update on cybersecurity and how cyberattacks are up 74% since 2020 and explores how the transportation sector can improve their cybersecurity resiliency. One key: knowing where the vulnerabilities are.
Finally, we have a look at perimeter fencing. Fencing can be low tech or high tech. There are new technologies that can help keep intruders out. Check out the latest in this roundtable discussion on perimeter security.
Hope you enjoy this issue – thanks for reading. Wishing you all the best as we enter the busy holiday travel season.