LOS ANGELES, July 7, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) stepped up security at its four airports in Southern California following the terrorist attacks in London early today. Airport Police in coordination with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), local law enforcement officials and air carriers implemented a number of additional security measures.
LAWA officials said airline operations at Los Angeles International (LAX), Ontario International (ONT) and Palmdale Regional (PMD) airports were normal and expected to remain routine during the heightened security period. At Van Nuys Airport (VNY), the general aviation airport operated by LAWA, airport police have increased patrols, closed some access points and implemented additional measures in coordination with tenants.
LAX officials said flights serving the United Kingdom were not experiencing delays or cancellations as of 8 a.m. PST but travelers were advised to check with airlines for updated information in the event off-schedule operations develop during the day. LAX has 10 daily nonstop flights to London Heathrow Airport.
Airport officials noted that while the public may notice some additional security measures, such as increased use of K-9 patrols in passenger terminals and presence of police at airport entrances, other security measures are confidential and may go largely unnoticed.
Unattended vehicles parked at the curb in front of LAX, ONT and PMD terminal buildings will be immediately impounded and towed at the owners' expense.
Law enforcement presence at LAWA airports includes hundreds of uniformed and plainclothes officers from Airport Police, city police and numerous federal agencies including TSA, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Air Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, as well as K-9 patrols and special operations units.