Failed Bomb Plot Has Airports On High Alert

By ABC-7 Reporter Marissa Monroy

EL PASO — The alleged terrorist plot is raising new questions about airport security. Airport officials are staying tight-lipped about whether there will be any changes imposed at the El Paso International Airport, but travelers around the world have already started to experience heightened security.

“I was like, ‘oh, crap, I’m flying the next day,'” Fatima Schmal said after learning about the alleged terrorist attempt. “it made me a little nervous, but I still have faith in security.”

Those feelings were not shared by security officials however. Less than 24 hours after the alleged terrorist attempt, airlines limited United States-bound passengers to just one carry-on bag.

“I think that’s another incident where they jump at something and say, ‘oh this is going to fix it,'” Wayne King said. “They need to take a closer look at it and not jump to conclusions.”

Other travelers, like ones flying Air Canada, will feel the change on the actual flight. The airline told passengers they are now prohibited from leaving their seats an hour before landing and they will not be allowed to have any other items on their laps during that time. The new regulation frustrated some passengers.

“I get kind of uncomfortable being in a plane for so long,” Schmal said. King agrees. “it would be a big burden and I wouldn’t want to do it.”

But others say the fuss is worth the peace of mind.

“I think some of the inconveniences you have to go through is just for safety,” said Danny Vasquez.