Washington Week: Student Voices (O)

U. Texas-area airport on red alert
By Andy St.jean
Daily Texan (U. Texas)
08/11/2006

(U-WIRE) AUSTIN, Texas — Passengers were greeted by tightened security measures Thursday as they arrived at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, following the arrests of several individuals in Britain allegedly planning to bomb international flights.

Officials held one incoming flight after its crew found a suspicious note in the plane's bathroom.

Signs posted at security checkpoints informed travelers that "no liquids or gels of any kind will be permitted in carry-on baggage. Items must be in checked baggage."

Passengers had mixed feelings on the new security measures.

"You should exercise caution, but sometimes I think you can go overboard," said Judy Richardson, an Austin businesswoman flying to Los Angeles to visit her sister.

Joshua Jones, was flying to Minneapolis for law school, said he was not concerned with the strain the new security measures might put on his trip.

"If it were to adversely affect my travel plans, that would be fine. I would just be patient," he said. "It is better safe than sorry."

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