Thompson Praises Reestablishment of Aviation Security Advisory Committee
(WASHINGTON) – Today, the Transportation Security Administration and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the reestablishment of the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC). ASAC was originally created in response to the Lockerbie terrorist bombing in 1988, was later transferred to the Transportation Security Administration in 2001, and previously played a critical role in the development of aviation security programs. However, it has not met consistently for several years and its charter was allowed to expire in 2006 under the Bush administration. Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, has long supported the reestablishment of ASAC and recently sponsored legislation (H.R. 1447) which would codify its reestablishment. The legislation was endorsed by the Cargo Airline Association, the United States Travel Association, and Airports Council International.
Congressman Thompson released the following statement praising the decision:
The re-establishment of ASAC is long past due. Its restoration ensures that TSA is hearing from a broad base of stakeholders involved in aviation security in order to foster more cooperation and better security policies. As we approach the 10 year anniversary of 9/11 in the wake of persistent terrorist threats, we must be more vigilant than ever in securing the federal aviation system. ASAC will ensure that there is essential information sharing between TSA, air carriers, and other stakeholders.
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