Air Travel

Airline Security and Seat Selection 

• Try to book a non-stop flight, as these have fewer takeoffs and landings.
• Choose an airline with a good safety and on-time record.
• Try to make your stopovers in airports that have a high security standard and good security screening.
• Try to fly wide body planes. Hijackers tend to avoid these as having too many passengers.
• Most travellers prefer an aisle seat. Choose a window or centre seat. This will keep you away from the hijackers and any action that may be happening in the aisle.

At the Airport  

To diminish the risks of becoming an innocent bystander victim of a terrorist attack and reduce your exposure to the criminal threat, there are a number of things that you should remember when checking into an airport.

• In the event of a disturbance of any kind, go in the opposite direction. DO NOT GET INVOLVED! 
• Plan to check in early for your flight to avoid long lines at the ticket counter.
• Go directly to the gate or secure area after checking your luggage. (Secure Zone - Area between security/immigration and the departure gate.) Avoid waiting rooms and shopping areas outside the secure areas.
• Stay away from glass wall areas and airport coffee shops which are open to the concourse or public waiting areas.
• From the time you pack your luggage until you check it with the carrier at the airport maintain positive control of all items, both hand carried and checked.
• At many airports security personnel, following FAA protocol, will ask you questions about control of your luggage. Know what items you are carrying and be able to describe any/all electrical items.
• When going through the pre-board screening process cooperate with security personnel and remember that they are there to help ensure that your travel is safe.
• When arriving at or departing from an airport it is a good idea not to be exchanging items between bags while waiting in line for security screening or immigration/customs processing. Complete all packing before entering such areas.
• If a conflict should arise while undergoing the screening process, cooperate. Obtain the names of the screeners involved, and then discuss the matter with a supervisor from the appropriate air carrier.
• Remember that x-ray will not damage film, videos or computer equipment. Many times such items can be cleared using x-ray which means that they will not have to be handled by the screener.
• Consider being transported to/from the airport by a hotel vehicle. Generally the cost is not prohibitive, and arrangements can be made in advance by your travel agent.
• Declare all currency and negotiable instruments as required by law.
• NEVER leave your luggage or briefcase unattended, even while checking in or once in the secure zone. In some countries, the police or security forces assume that an unattended bag is a bomb, and your luggage could be forcefully opened or even destroyed.
• Always be aware of where you are in conjunction with where you are going. If an incident occurs, you need to know how to avoid it and either get out of the area or to your boarding area.
• Dress casually when travelling as this will keep any undue attention from you. Once aboard the flight, remove your shoes for better circulation. Walk around the flight cabin to keep your blood circulating and swelling down.
• Avoid last minute dashes to the airport.
• Eat moderately, avoid alcoholic beverages and drink plenty of water as this will help to avoid dehydration.
• If possible, before you leave make an effort to adjust your sleep patterns.
• Sleep as much as possible during the flight.
• Carry air sickness medication with you. Even the best traveller sometimes experiences air sickness.
• Avoid a demanding schedule upon arrival. Give yourself a chance to adjust to your surroundings

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