More security for US-bound private planes

[November 18, 2008]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- Closing what he called the last major vulnerability for bringing a weapon of mass destruction into the U.S., Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff announced new rules for screening passengers and crew members on private aircraft bound for America.

Starting in about a month, at least one hour before takeoff general aviation pilots will have to submit the names and other information about every person on board a flight to the U.S.

The goal is to keep terrorists from using a private plane to smuggle a dirty bomb or nuclear weapon into the U.S. and detonate the weapon over a major city. Requiring that information be sent one hour before takeoff gives officials more time to screen passengers and crew against intelligence databases that list suspected terrorists.

Private aircraft have not undergone the intense screening given to U.S.-bound cargo and commercial flights, leaving general aviation flights vulnerable, Chertoff said at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

"I want to make these investments now even though the threat is not imminent," Chertoff said.

The rule takes effect 30 days after it's published in the Federal Register.

[Associated Press; By EILEEN SULLIVAN]

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