BWI Airport’s Unplanned Shutdown
Washington DC’s Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) faced an unexpected and challenging situation as it was temporarily shut down due to a bomb threat.
Passenger Disruption and Standstill Traffic
Passengers attempting to access the airport encountered major disruptions, with some trapped in standstill traffic for over an hour.
Inside the terminal, passengers faced uncertainty as they were unable to leave the premises.
Emergency Response and Investigation
The scene at BWI Airport was filled with police and fire services, while helicopters hovered above.
Flights were delayed as law enforcement investigated a bomb threat, prompted by a man’s claims of having explosives in his car, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Suspect in Custody and Vehicle Cleared
Amid the tension, one suspect was taken into custody, and authorities subsequently cleared the vehicle of any explosives.
Maryland Transportation Authority police officers were instrumental in managing the situation.
Temporary Terminal Closure
The airport management issued a statement, explaining the temporary closure of the terminal roadway due to the ongoing law enforcement investigation.
Vehicular traffic approaching the airport was held, and passengers inside the terminal were advised to remain in place.
Gradual Return to Normalcy
Following the successful clearance of the suspect’s vehicle, operations began to return to normal.
Traffic en route to the airport was allowed to move, and passengers inside the terminal were permitted to exit.
Impact on Transportation Services
The incident also had repercussions for transportation services, with all trains on the Maryland Transit and Light Rail service suspending their operations to the airport during the situation.
Firearms at BWI Airport
Notably, this incident unfolded shortly after the TSA revealed that officers at BWI Airport had apprehended a traveler carrying a loaded handgun at one of the checkpoints on October 9.
This marked the 36th firearm discovered at the airport in 2023, setting a new record for gun catches in a single year.
Security Vigilance and Vigilant TSA Team
TSA officials emphasized the importance of vigilance in ensuring the safety of air travel. They acknowledged the dedication of their team at BWI Airport in preventing illegal or prohibited items from being brought onto flights.
This alarming trend of firearm discoveries underscores the need for strict security measures.
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