Small tools to be allowed on planes, TSA defends decision

Small tools to be allowed on planes, TSA defends decision

The Transport Security Administration (TSA) has proposed to relax the ban on passengers carrying small tools on flights, things like scissors, wrenches and screw-drivers, that were disallowed on planes after 9/11. The move has met with disapproval from flight attendants and some Congressmen.

The TSA however has maintained its decision. “Sorting through thousands of bags a day to pull out small tools doesn't help security, it hurts it,” reasoned TSA chief Kip Hawley addressing the Senate Commerce Committee.

“The list of items that are now permitted on planes that could be turned into weapons is almost limitless. We must focus our attention on the far more dangerous threat of explosives.” The committee is in the process of evaluating the new security measures proposed by TSA which will be implemented from December 22.

Flight Attendants have vehemently criticized the decision quoting the instance of September 11 attacks in which terrorists used box-cutters and scissors to hijack the planes. “Why would anyone need to bring small scissors or screwdrivers on board?” argued Pat Friend, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants. “Shifting resources should not be done at the expense of allowing deadly weapons back on board.”

“I am sympathetic to the fears of some passengers and crewmembers who are worried about their personal safety. The fact is that scissors and tools can be used as weapons,” Hawley said. “Clearly if someone is intent on causing personal injury, a prohibition on small scissors and tools will not stop them. It's not about scissors; it's about bombs.” The new measures focus on better security against explosives using improved bomb detection devices and technology.

Ted Stevens, the chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee has also expressed discontent on TSA's decision. “The problem is this will allow more stuff into the cabin. People will look at this and think I can carry anything I want”, said Stevens.