ASHWAUBENON, WI -- With the world on alert for the threat of new terrorist attacks, U.S. airports are tightening security this holiday season.
AAA says 47 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this holiday season. That's 977,000 from Wisconsin alone, and an estimated 8,000 from Austin Straubel International Airport. But events as recently as today have some worried about traveling this Thanksgiving.
For the first time today, Vladimir Putin is acknowledging a bomb was behind the downing of a Russian passenger jet last month, and vowing to punish Islamic militants in response.
Meanwhile, not one, but two U.S. flights were interrupted by suspicious behavior today. It's unclear if there's a link to terrorism in either case.
"I'm waiting for my wife and daughter, who've been in Prague," says KI CEO Dick Resch, inside the terminal at Austin Straubel, "and they're on their way back."
Today's events are all adding to the heightened concern throughout Wisconsin's airports, including concern among those planning to travel, or currently traveling.
"I'm certainly glad she's not flying through Charles de Gaulle [Airport], and Paris," adds Resch.
"Right now, there doesn't appear to be any credible threat against any U.S. airlines," says Austin Straubel Airport director Tom Miller, as passengers hurry by him with their luggage.
Miller says airports across the nation--including those in Northeast WI--are working closely with the TSA, and are ready to impose travel restrictions if necessary.
"There may be secondary screening at the gate," says Miller, "just prior to boarding."
He says passengers can also help by reporting suspicious activity, or packages.
"If you see it, report it," reminds Miller.
One important note to travelers looking to bring Christmas gifts on the plane: do not wrap them.
Miller says they will be opened by TSA officials if their x-ray can't see through the wrapping paper.
