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TSA considering new security measures for all airport workers

Kansas City International Airport
Kansas City International Airport

PHILLIP LUCAS, Associated Press

ATLANTA (AP) — Federal officials say the Transportation Security Administration is considering additional security measures for airport and airline employees nationwide.

The announcement from the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday came weeks after five people were arrested in a gun-smuggling operation involving passenger jets traveling between Atlanta and New York City. One of those arrested was a Delta baggage handler and ramp agent who worked at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson visited the airport on Thursday to review U.S. Customs and Border Protection and TSA operations.

Officials say the new measures could include enhanced airline-employee screenings, random security checks and additional security patrols in secure areas. Details weren’t immediately available on when the upgraded security measures may be implemented.

Atlanta airport officials say they’ve already upgraded employee security protocols.

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