June 6, 2007
George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby are the first airports in the world to debut new mobile threat containment units. The new Aigis Blast Protection IU1200 threat containment units are versatile and optimally-sized to handle passenger carry-on luggage. They provide added safety through quick handling and disposal of suspicious, or potentially harmful, materials detected at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints.
“These new security devices represent additional safety for the traveling public,” says Mark Mancuso, HAS deputy director of aviation for public safety and technology. “They also reduce significant passenger travel delays and disruptions in our airports.”
The units are in place at all TSA checkpoints. It takes only seconds to transfer a suspicious piece of luggage to the specially designed containers, which are moved away for further processing. They also protect people and property in the event of an explosion.
“The new Aigis Threat Containment Units can handle the expected threat from suspect baggage,” according to Mr. Eamonn Cooney, special advisor for Aigis Blast Protection Inc. “They also address wider concerns with false alarms which cost airports, airlines and passengers million of dollars in delays and disruptions.”
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The Houston Airport System served 51 million passengers in 2006. It is the 4th-largest multi-airport system in the U.S. and the 6th-largest in the world. Bush Intercontinental is the nation’s 9th-busiest airport. According to J.D. Powers & Associates, William P. Hobby Airport is first in customer satisfaction among smaller airports in the United States. HAS annually contributes over $24 billion in positive economic impact to the Greater Houston region. For more information watch Houston Airports Today every Saturday at 9:00 am on KTBU Channel 55 or visit www.fly2houston.com . | 
