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Abstract

This dissertation explores the topic of aviation terrorism and small airports with the aim of establishing to what extent small airports might be the weak link in the UK’s fight against terrorism. A review of existing literature on the topic has been conducted. By examining previous events it has been established that aviation remains a viable target for terrorists, and each event brings with it new security measures. Heightened security at large airports has fuelled a desire to seek similar softer targets such as small airports. The small aircraft based at these locations can be used for a range of attacks, these include using an aircraft as a weapon, or to facilitate the unauthorised entry of people and goods in relation to terrorism. It has been acknowledged in this dissertation that small airports are a potential weak link in terms of terrorism in the UK.
Securing the vast number of small airports across the UK is a difficult undertaking. Border Force (BF) the police and the security measures in operation at small airports are discussed and compared against larger commercial airports. This indicates that small airports have a lack of BF, police and security personnel. They are heavily reliant on an intelligence led approach. Outdated systems could hinder operations and potentially lead to terrorists being missed when they arrive through small airports. A joint law enforcement operation, Project Pegasus, has been created specifically to tackle aviation border crime around the UK’s small airfields by asking the general public to report suspicious activity. Time would not have been taken to create a project of this nature unless significant risks are present. The associated risk and the variety of ways small airports and aircraft can be used by terrorists is the reason why small airport security needs enhancing. However, it appears the financial implications of any security upgrades would make small airports unviable as a business. Unless the UK government provide support regarding this issue it seems unlikely there will be any change.

Course: Risk and Security Management - BSc (Hons) - C1565

Date Deposited: 2021-11-05

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13732.html