Following the terrorist attacks in Brussels, Belgium on Tuesday morning, the Pittsburgh International Airport has increased security and reminded passengers of the familiar mantra, “if you see something, say something.” Bob Kerlik, Vice President of Media Relations for Pittsburgh International Airport says they are in constant communication with both the Pittsburgh Police and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers.
The airport also plans to increase visibility of security agents and canine units, as well as increase vigilance on airport security cameras.
“Safety and security are the top priorities at Pittsburgh International Airport,” Kerlik says.
Kerlik says as a media relations professional in a time of crisis, it has been his goal to filter accurate and timely information to the public to assure travelers the Pittsburgh airport is as safe as possible.
“You may see more of a presence here in the airport, but that’s not cause for alarm,” Kerlik says. “To the contrary, it’s cause for comfort.”
Currently, there are no passenger flights into or out of Brussels Airport. Although the Pittsburgh airport does not offer direct flights to Brussels, Kerlik predicts the resuming of normal operations in the Brussels airport to be decided on a national basis.
Kerlik advises travelers to arrive two hours before their scheduled flight, leaving ample time for increased security measures. His suggestion? Stay calm and go about your normal day, but if you see suspicious activity, say something.
“What we’re focused on now is stepping up the patrols, doing everything we can, using the cameras, using the dogs, using the public to focus on security as much as we can, and I think that’s where we are at this point.”
The Pittsburgh airport will resume its operations as scheduled.
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