TWA Crash Spurs New Safety Measures

<H1> TWA Crash Spurs New Safety Measures</H1> <I>Washington, D.C. </I>- President Clinton last week ordered the Federal Aviation Administration to increase security at U.S. airports, creating substantial delays for travelers.

FAA announced it will immediately raise the intensity of passenger screening on international flights and of carry-on baggage on both international and domestic flights. Additional classified measures also will be undertaken.

Airlines said they will implement the tightened controls immediately and suggested that travelers get to the airport early.

<I>BTN</I> obtained a draft FAA press release indicating that curbside baggage checkin and off-airport baggage checkin from hotels and cruise ships will be eliminated. The release also said the President appointed Vice President Al Gore to head a 45-day task force to examine aviation safety, security and modernization of the air traffic control system. The FAA would not comment on any of the information found on this unofficial press release.

"Passengers should expect delays at the airport as congestion at security screening checkpoints may occur as a result of more bags being opened and searched," the official release said. The FAA suggested passengers clearly label luggage and be prepared to answer questions about bags, have photo ID available, be prepared to have carry-on and checked baggage inspected and arrive early and proceed promptly to departure gates after checking bags.

The announcements came amid the search for a cause of the TWA Flight 800 crash. Although FAA officials would not comment on what security level airports are now at, they already were at a level three out of four.

At level four, not in effect since the Persian Gulf War, airports at a minimum face stringent parking restrictions, and only ticketed passengers are allowed beyond security checkpoints.