BWI Security Visible Following Deadly Florida Airport Shooting
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Following Friday's shooting that killed at least five people and injured at least eight others in Florida, BWI Marshall Airport is making security's presence known as officers are doing everything they can to keep travelers safe.
BWI officials say there have been no threats there, but they are remaining vigilant and patrolling in public areas.
As the details unfolded in Fort Lauderdale Friday, every single flight that was supposed to leave Baltimore for the airport – was canceled.
All flights to and from Fort Lauderdale have been canceled. And it's been that way all evening, still, though travelers hope there may be a bright spot for Saturday morning.
A mother and daughter had a connecting flight to Fort Lauderdale, but they had to scramble to find an alternative.
"Soon after landing, someone had said there was a shooting at the Fort Lauderdale airport. People were texting me back and forth, where are you, are you in the airport right now?" says Florida travelerLisa Saunders.
Saunders and her daughter will now have to catch a flight to Tampa, then drive four hours to Fort Lauderdale. They're hoping they'll arrive on time to catch a cruise that leaves Saturday afternoon.
WJZ's cameras were rolling as armed law enforcement strolled through the airport. They Maryland Transportation Authority police says there is no unique threat to the airport, but passengers should remain vigilant.
"If they see something, say something. Come to a uniformed MDTA officer if they see something that looks out of line," says Lt. Kevin Ayd with Maryland Transportation Authority.
There are some flights that are on time for Saturday morning. But you may want to check before you show up, as travelers saw today, flights that were initially set for departure, ended up being canceled altogether. To check on a flight departing or arriving at BWI, CLICK HERE.
BWI reminds travelers to say something if you see something, and don't be afraid to approach an officer.
BWI Marshall Airport released the following statement following Friday's shooting in Florida:
As a National Capital Region airport, BWI Marshall Airport consistently operates with a high level of security. Aviation security remains our leading focus and commitment.
BWI Marshall Airport is working closely with federal and state security and law enforcement authorities. The airport is closely monitoring the situation in Fort Lauderdale. At this point, there is no indication of any local threat.
Aviation security uses multiple layers. Passengers will continue to see many security measures in place at BWI Marshall Airport. There are other security procedures and protocols that the public would not recognize. Customers will likely observe a heightened level of security, as the airport and our partners act with an abundance of precaution.
The traveling public should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, and should report any suspicious activity to authorities.
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