Increased U.S. Airport Security After Belgium Attacks
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GRAPEVINE (CBSDFW.COM) - Multiple explosions in Belgium have left more than 30 people dead and many more hurt, and the attack is already impacting travel to the United States. The incident happened at around 2:00 a.m. early Tuesday, and investigators are saying that a suicide bomber is to blame for at least one of the blasts.
Reports indicate that at least two of the explosions went off near the American Airlines departure area at the Brussels Airport. A third explosion happened a short time later at a subway station in downtown Brussels. American Airlines confirmed that all of their staff members and contractors have been located and are safe. The carrier has not yet commented on the conditions of any of their passengers.
"American Airlines extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to those affected by the tragic events in Brussels," the Fort Worth carrier said in a statement released on Tuesday morning.
There was a flight from Brussels to Philadelphia scheduled for 3:30 a.m. early Tuesday. American Airlines canceled that flight, as well as one from Philadelphia to Brussels. Travelers with other flights to or from Brussels should contact their airlines for the latest information on the status of their flights.
In their statement, American Airlines explained, "When operations at the Brussels Airport resume, we will reaccomodate our customers on available flights." Travelers with flights booked on either March 22 or March 23 may request a refund, select an alternate airport or reschedule their trips.
There have not been major delays or cancellations to domestic flights, but security has been heightened at DFW International Airport on Tuesday. Armed officers have been walking around with semi-automatic rifles -- which is not the norm. Authorities are also being extra vigilant when it comes to unattended baggage. Security dogs regularly patrol the terminals once or twice a week. They were very present on Tuesday morning, sometimes being led around the airport in pairs.
Passengers lined up at the security checkpoints as if it were business as usual, however, the events in Brussels are definitely on their minds. "When we checked in this morning, I saw dogs and security and I thought, 'Okay.' I felt better. It was sniffing all the bags and counters and stuff, which is good," stated traveler Imah Eden. "I noticed all the people. They were not panicking. So, I guess we are getting used to stuff like this, which is good. I think the bottom line is, everybody needs to be prepared at all times."
"I'm more concerned about people coming over than once you're here," added business traveler Paul Williams.
Officials are working Tuesday to increase security at Dallas Love Field as well.
These attacks come just days after a Paris terror attack suspect was arrested in Belgium. That man was shot and arrested, but investigators said that he likely spent his time on the run planning more attacks. There is an international manhunt right now for the man who authorities believe built the bombs used in the Paris attacks. There has been no word yet if these individuals are connected to the Belgium bombings.
Victims of the Belgium attacks have been sharing pictures on social media. Twitter users have posted many photos of rubble at the Brussels subway station and crowds leaving the Brussels Airport. Several hashtags have been trending nationally including #PrayersForBelgium and #PrayersForBrussels.
