Airports need to also have a well-trained MANPAD threat response team that is familiar with combating MANPAD type weapons and tactics. This team needs to have the ability to respond quickly and effectively to any terrorist threat, with emphasis on MANPAD threats and attacks. Even after a MANPAD attack occurs, those in the aircraft as well as those on the ground need to understand how to respond effectively to reduce the possibility of further damage or attacks. 2 ?" Examine the issue of planning the airport of the future in terms of minimizing the MANPAD threat. It is far easier to build systems into new designs than it is to attempt to modify existing ones.

Since large airports are relatively costly and require permanent structures, it is much easier to build anti-MANPAD systems and strategies into new airports than it is to attempt to modify older, existing airports. Existing airports that have poorly designed security buffers or areas that are difficult to patrol and monitor have the highest potential for MANPAD attacks. Those airports that can be designed with the MANPAD threat in mind stand the best...

Airport design must reflect the need for a secure buffer area around the runways, and a minimal amount of security portals (TSA, 2006). These portals can also include barriers and checkpoints to help ensure security. With a clear understanding of the relatively new technology associated with MANPADS, airport designers can help to mitigate this threat by understanding that airport layout and the surrounding areas are just as important from a security standpoint as the security of the terminal and landside areas themselves.