Security step up for Air Tattoo in wake of September 11 terrorist attacks (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Security step up for Air Tattoo in wake of September 11 terrorist attacks

SECURITY for the world's biggest military air show at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire is to be stepped up in the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

The wealth of military hardware which will be at the Royal International Air Tattoo next month is being valued at US$8 trillion, calling for new security measures to be introduced at the two day event.

Security chiefs at the airbase say bag searches of everyone entering will be carried out and that the use of X-ray equipment to scan people and vehicles may be introduced.

Squadron leader Mark Sexton, a security adviser at Fairford, says vigorous checks will be made to ensure public safety when the Tattoo is held.

"The tragic events of September 11 have had an impact on assessing the threat to all major public events this has resulted in additional security measures," he said.

"We've have done detailed security plans with advice from Gloucestershire Constabulary, the United States Airforce and the Royal Air Force Police."

Around 450 aircraft from 35 nations will be present at Fairford between July 20-21 - worth an estimated US$8 trillion.

Approximately 100,000 visitors and aircraft enthusiasts are expected on each day of the airshow and Sqrn Ldr Sexton appealed for public assistance to help the security operation.

"The security checks will have some impact on members of the public but they should be reassured by a high profile operation to take take every possible step to ensure their safety," he said.

"We are asking the public to help us. We will be introducing a major search operation so we are asking visitors to bring a minimum amount of bags to the show."

If they do bring lots of bags they should leave them locked securely in their cars. Any belongings they bring into the show should be clearly labelled and kept with them at all times.

"The public have a major role to play," he added.

"If they see any vehicle or person that arouses suspicion they should report this suspicion to police or RIAT staff."

Sqdrn Ldr Sexton would not go into details about other measures that would be used to thwart would be terrorists.

"It would be unwise for me to go into huge detail in what we're going to do, suffice to say we have comprehensive plans to deal with every contingency," he said.

"If X-ray facilities are used they will be film safe."