The 9/11 attack changed airport security for good

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Going through airports before the attack on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, was a much simpler process, but stricter policies still continue to be enforced even 20 years after the incident.

Anyone passing through the checkpoint before 9/11 could do so without taking off shoes, belts and outerwear or removing items from their carry-ons. Liquids, gels and aerosols in any quantity could be brought through the checkpoint, unless something set off the metal detector that could require extra screening.

In the aftermath of Sept. 11, an intense spotlight was focused on airport security and measures were put in place aimed at preventing similar attacks from happening again.

In November 2001, the Aviation and Transportation Security Act was signed into law by President George W. Bush. The Act established the Transportation Security Administration, requiring screening conducted by federal officials, 100% checked baggage screening, expansion of the Federal Air Marshal Service, reinforced cockpit doors and federal oversight of security in all modes of transportation.

Mike Parks, Columbia Regional Airport manager, said before the 9/11 attack that airport personnel did the airport screening process, but now TSA covers a much bigger part of the airport with safety measures.

Parks said directly after the attack it was the job of the airports to take steps to get flyers' confidence back into the screening and security of the airlines.

Mark Howell, TSA regional spokesperson, said since TSA began, its goal has been to make rules and adapt to the ever-changing threat picture.

"To give an example, in December just after 9/11 there was an attempted shoe bomb plot. We had to implement rules to remove shoes and screen shoes when you go through the security checkpoint," Howell said.

Howell also said TSA implemented liquid limits on carry-on bags to 3.4 ounces due to a liquid explosive threat in Europe. Electronics come out of your bag when you go through security because of threats of people trying to hide explosives inside of laptops.

Secure flight technology has also begun within the last 5 years. Based on your I.D., this program runs all of your information from your license across information provided and entered into secure systems.

TSA technology evolved from just metal detectors at checkpoints to advanced imaging technology after "the underwear bomber plot." Computed tomography screening machines are used now to look at bags in a 360-degree view to give officers a better look at potential threats.

Howell knows that some passengers may think going through security is a hassle, but every rule has been put in place to make sure passengers get from point A to point B safely. TSA is always looking for ways to make the security process less invasive and more efficient, he said.

"It gives me peace of mind to know that when I have to take my shoes off, empty my pockets, and those things that maybe aren't really convenient, it allows me to know that I'm safe when I'm getting on the aircraft because everybody's doing the exact same thing," Parks said.

One of the new strategies for this is the TSA pre-check.

Frequent flyer and Columbia resident Michael Burke said when flying before the 9/11 attack, you could just get dropped off right at the terminal and go right in to catch a flight just before it takes off.

Burke said he loves having the TSA pre-check option to avoid the extra steps. "Those who have already been screened once a year, now we can go through without the hassle," Burke said.

Parks said changes have also been made during flights, the biggest one being to the cockpit doors.

"Years ago when you flew you could actually sit in your seat and watch the pilots fly the aircraft. That's changed now and the door stays closed and stays secure," Parks said.