There seems to be worrisome news everywhere, from the continued government shutdown that is affecting TSA personnel to the long lines reported at U.S. airports.
Add in the last couple of years of aircraft incidents and near misses, as well as the new war with Iran—not to mention terror attacks with drones in places like Dubai—and travelers wouldn’t be faulted for wondering about the safety of flying today.
It also seems top of mind for Jeh Johnson, the former Department of Homeland Security Secretary.
It was reported that he recently told CNBC that the U.S. is now operating in a “heightened security threat environment because of the fact that Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism.”
And while Johnson did not specifically say that fliers are at a higher risk than pre-war, he and other security experts have expressed concern about “lone actors inspired by terrorist organizations."
Concerning the TSA personnel who currently are not receiving paychecks, Johnson was clear that they play an important role.
“These are the people we depend upon to look for bombs and explosive devices on the airplane you’re about to get on with your family. They live paycheck to paycheck when they’re getting paid,” he said. “Morale traditionally in TSA is low and now we’re forcing them to go to work without being paid at all.”
There are no U.S. government warnings about flying, but the Department of State did release a notification in late February noting that, “Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures. The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution.”
Add in this with the news that summer flights are about to get more expensive, the idea of air travel will be impacted for many American travelers.
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