Airport Watch Provides Additional Layer of Security
From TSA Blog Central
6/24/2013
A unique partnership between the Bensenville, Illinois Police Department, TSA and the FBI has added some extra eyes and ears to perimeter security at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport (ORD).
In 2010, the Bensenville Police Department developed the first Airport Watch Program in Illinois. The program enlists volunteers, many of whom combine their aviation “spotting” activities and photography hobbies to increase security at the airport.
According to the Bensenville Police Department, Airport Watch volunteers provide the same sort of security as a Neighborhood Watch program. Members monitor aviation procedures, the condition of fencing around the airport property, wildlife activity, parking lots, suspicious behavior, and flying debris.
“Security is a shared responsibility and we encourage the program’s participants, and all citizens, to report any suspicious activity to TSA or local law enforcement,” said TSA FSD Kathleen Petrowsky. “We’re proud to provide support and training to the Bensenville Police Department Airport Watch Program to help improve security here at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport.”
This group of aviation enthusiasts meets monthly with representatives from the FBI, Chicago Police Department and TSA. All members must successfully complete a background check and are vetted through the Bensenville Police Department. The ORD Airport Watch has even participated in full scale ORD aviation exercises such as Active Shooter and Disaster and Emergency Response drills.
“Their presence and quick notification to authorities has helped reduce crime around ORD and in neighboring communities,” added ORD AFSD-LE Jeffrey Quiroga.
