FED: Security threat unchanged, US-bound passengers searched

AAP General News (Australia)
12-27-2009
FED: Security threat unchanged, US-bound passengers searched

Australia's security threat level will remain at medium following a failed terrorist
attack on a US-bound plane .. but passengers flying to America will undergo more stringent
measures.

Nigerian man UMAR FAROUK ABDULMUTALLAB has been charged with trying to blow up a Delta
Airbus A330 on a flight from Amsterdam to Detroit on Christmas Day.

Federal Transport Minister ANTHONY ALBANESE says US authorities have issued changes
to security protocols .. meaning passengers must remain in their seats for at least one
hour prior to landing.

They'll be unable to have blankets .. pillows or personal belongings on their laps
during this time.

It follows reports the 23-year-old Nigerian emerged from the airplane lavatory before
landing .. sat down and put a blanket over his lap under which he attempted to detonate
the device.

AAP RTV vpm/tm

KEYWORD: US PLANE AUST (SYDNEY)

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