Airports On High Alert This Holiday Season Amid Recent Attacks, Shootings

BALTIMORE (WJZ)--It's the busiest time of the year for travel and airports are taking steps to protect the extra passengers.

WJZ's Amy Yensi explains.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens 2 million passengers daily and that number's expected to jump during the winter holidays.

The high-travel season happening amidst terror attacks and mass shootings in France, Colorado and California.

The recent violence is raising safety concerns at airports across the country and here in Maryland.

TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein says the TSA is on high-alert.

"We're doing everything we can to make sure the flying public gets to their destination safely," she said.

The check point is the most visible sign of airport security, but the TSA says there are other hidden measures to protect travelers.

"On board an airplane there are re-enforced cockpit doors. We have federal flight deck officers which are pilots who are certified to fly with firearms. And we offer self-defense to flight crew as well," said Farbstein.

President Obama recently reassured travelers saying, "I want the American people to know we are taking every possible step to keep our homeland safe."

Though they know of the risks, passengers at BWI are determined to fly without fear.

The TSA is urging travelers to stay vigilant and to speak up if they anything suspicious at the airport.

If you'd like some tips from the TSA on how prepare for the busy holiday travel season CLICK HERE.