U.S. Issues Travel Warning As Pittsburgh International Preps For Busy Holiday Week
PITTSBURGH (KDKA/AP) -- Americans should be alert to the possible travel risks, especially during the holidays, following increased terrorist threats around the world, the State Department warned on Monday.
A travel alert, which is to be in effect until Feb. 24, said current information suggests that militants with the Islamic State, al-Qaida, Boko Haram and other terrorist groups continue to plan attacks in multiple regions. U.S. authorities said the likelihood of terror attacks will continue as members of IS return from Syria and Iraq, and other individuals not affiliated with terror groups engage in violence on their own.
Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, open markets and aviation targets. In the past year, there have been multiple attacks in France, Nigeria, Denmark, Lebanon, Turkey and Mali. IS has claimed responsibility for the Oct. 31 bombing of a Russian airliner in Egypt, killing 224 people.
"U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using transportation," the alert said. "Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds or crowded places. Exercise particular caution during the holiday season and at holiday festivals or events."
The State Department said the U.S. is exchanging information with allies about threats of international terrorism.
The travel alert was issued the same day that Belgium's prime minister announced that Brussels would remain at the highest alert level for at least another week. The increased security measures following the Nov. 13 attacks in Paris that killed 130 people have virtually shut down the Belgian capital.
Over at Pittsburgh International Airport, officials are asking travelers to arrive two hours before departure times rather than one.
"A lot of times, you can have that attitude and be safe throughout the year; but this week, please come two hours in advance," said airport spokesman Bob Kerlik.
Fueled by Paris, expect the TSA to be hypervigilant.
"We are constantly evolving based on intelligence or any threats that the intelligence community may be picking up," said TSA regional spokesman Michael McCarthy.
McCarthy says not only arrive early, but arrive ready with your ID and ticket in hand.
"Make sure you don't have any prohibited items in your carry-on luggage and that will really help get you and everyone else through that checkpoint and on to your gate," said McCarthy.
With everyone trying to cram a lot of vacation into just a few days, it could get cozy.
"We're expecting over 200,000 people arriving and departing over the next week between now and Monday," says Kerlik.
And while you're getting checked through security, know that your checked bags are getting an intense review as well.
And if there's anything that raises an eyebrow, McCarthy says, "It will be flagged for additional inspection whether it's viewing that on the monitor of opened and check by one of our officers.
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