Boston Logan Officals Mum on Security Amid Lawmakers' Push After Brussels Attacks

Boston Logan Airport officials won't discuss any security changes they may have made after the Brussels airport bombing, but Senate Democrats' priorities are clear.

The lawmakers -- joined by Homeland Security director Jeh Johnson Tuesday -- unveiled a set of proposals to boost security in more vulnerable areas of the nation's airports like the stretch from curbside to TSA security screening.

As part of a pending aviation bill, the proposal would nearly double the number of armed TSA teams that patrol airports, train stations and other transportation hubs from 31 to 60. They're called VIPER teams -- Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response teams.A number were first deployed to Logan in 2006 and TSA officials say they continue to rotate through other local transportation points like South Station.

The FAA legislation would also fund more active-shooter training for law enforcement and boost secutity at check in and baggage claim areas.

"We know of no specific credible intel of a plot like the Brussels attack here in the homeland, however we remain vigilant, concerned about potential acts of self-radicalized violence by the so-called lone actors here in this country at public places and at public events," Johnson said.

Travelers we spoke with at Logan weren't *against more security outside of the checkpoint areas, but several did say it seems like an uphill battle.

I don't know what they'd do except spend more money and catch it curbside," Daytona Beach, Florida, resident Gary Torkington said.

"I could see a lot better targets than here, you know? Like a mall or a gathering place," Marty Norberg of Savannah, Georgia, said.

Homeland Security's Johnson also said the U.S. must be able to donate security equipment to foreign airports to try and keep Americans safe overseas. There is a bill pending in Congress that would authorize such donations. 

Contact Us