Dear Colleagues,

Just as travelers headed to the airport to begin their final summer vacations we found ourselves reacting to the terrorist plot announced in the United Kingdom (U.K.). Elevated security levels threatened to overwhelm aviation security and airport personnel worldwide.

Airports throughout North America responded admirably to the challenges presented by their governments' requirements. ACI-NA members proved that they are well prepared. Our World Business Partners and Associate members, particularly those operating within airport terminals, also demonstrated their ability to adapt quickly.

The U.K. terrorist plot brought out the best in our industry. In the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration is to be commended for its outreach to ACI-NA and other industry organizations prior to and after the public announcement of the elevated threat levels. At 11 p.m. on Wednesday, August 9, I joined (with several of our members) a conference call with TSA Administrator Kip Hawley. That call took place hours before the public was notified and allowed the industry to weigh in on decisions as they were being made. Daily phone calls with TSA followed. Enhanced communication and cooperation between government and industry facilitated the swift resolution of issues as they arose.

Throughout the crisis, airports demonstrated that careful planning, practicing and drilling pays off. While most of the new security enhancements have already become routine, airports will remain alert and vigilant to ready themselves for the next threat.

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No matter what adjustments we make to our security system, terrorists will seek to operate within it. This most recent terrorist plot proved that those who want to find a way to harm innocent people will not be deterred. With this knowledge, the airport industry must adapt to provide the most secure system possible. ACI-NA will continue to work on a risk-based approach to security with TSA, as well as the Canadian Airports Council with its government agencies. Airports are committed to ensuring that the security screening process is both secure and efficient. We have ultimate responsibility for our facilities and it is one we take very seriously.

At no time are the relationships and friendships developed between airport personnel and government officials more important than during a crisis. ACI-NA's Public Safety and Security Committee, which met August 7-9 in Chicago for its fall conference just prior to the latest terrorist incident, helps to build those relationships. Our staff works closely with TSA and our industry partners on these issues on an ongoing basis.

I'm proud that ACI-NA was such a critical part of our response. I assure you that ACI-NA will continue to work hard to represent our industry's interests in providing a secure and growing aviation system.

Greg Principato
President
Airports Council International-North America