Stranger Followed Family Around Airport and Boarded Plane Without a Boarding Pass
Delta Reviewing Incident
Delta Air Lines is reviewing how a man who allegedly followed a family around the terminal then boarded the family’s plane earlier this month without a ticket for the flight.
The incident happened at Washington Dulles International Airport.
“Delta has processes in place for gate agents and flight crews to verify that individuals onboard aircraft prior to departure are customers that are booked on that particular flight,” the airline said in a statement. “Delta is reviewing the matter in question internally and has been in touch with airport authorities in conjunction with this review.”
Lauren Benton told ABC News that she noticed a man who appeared to be following herself, her husband and their two young children inside the terminal, even into a women’s restroom. She said when they boarded the plane, the man followed and sat down in their row.
Benton said her husband confronted the man, and a flight attendant asked to see his boarding pass, which he was unable to produce.
The man was removed from the plane. According to the Transportation Security Administration, he had a valid ID and boarding pass for a later flight, explaining how he got past the checkpoint.
Security Concerns
The incident has raised concerns about security at airports. Benton said she was surprised that the man was able to board the plane without a boarding pass.
“I’m not sure how he got on the plane,” she said. “It’s a little scary to think that someone could just get on a plane without a boarding pass.”
Delta said it is reviewing its security procedures in light of the incident.
Passenger Screening
The incident also highlights the importance of passenger screening. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for screening passengers and baggage at airports. TSA uses a variety of methods to screen passengers, including X-ray machines, metal detectors, and pat-downs.
TSA also uses behavioral detection techniques to identify passengers who may be a security risk. These techniques include observing passengers for signs of nervousness, anxiety, or other suspicious behavior.
TSA has come under criticism in recent years for its screening procedures. Some critics say that TSA’s procedures are too invasive and that they violate passengers’ privacy. Others say that TSA’s procedures are not effective at detecting security risks.
TSA has defended its screening procedures, saying that they are necessary to protect the safety of passengers and crew. TSA has also said that it is constantly reviewing and updating its procedures to make them more effective.
Conclusion
The incident at Washington Dulles International Airport is a reminder of the importance of airport security. It is also a reminder of the importance of passenger screening. TSA plays a vital role in protecting the safety of passengers and crew.
TSA is constantly reviewing and updating its procedures to make them more effective. However, it is also important for passengers to be aware of their own security and to take steps to protect themselves.
Passengers can take steps to protect themselves by:
- Being aware of their surroundings
- Reporting any suspicious activity to a TSA officer
- Following TSA’s instructions
By working together, TSA and passengers can help to ensure the safety of our airports and our skies.
