Local News in Brief : Airport Security Staff to Be Increased

Airlines using Burbank Airport will increase security staffing for about 30 minutes a night in response to a television news report that alleged that a loophole in security procedures could be used by a plane hijacker.

In a report Monday night, KNBC-TV maintained that there was a dangerous security lapse because the screening stations, where metal detectors scan passengers for weapons, have been unstaffed after the last outgoing flight departed about 9:40 each night.

People entering the terminal could then go to the boarding area without being screened to meet any of several flights that arrive before the airport ceases operations about 10 p.m.

An airline security committee voted Monday afternoon to increase security after the station gave airport officials an advance look at its videotape. Metal detectors will be staffed until the last passenger has left the building, said Michael Kean, customer service manager for Alaska Airlines and chairman of the committee.