The Terrorist Threat to
Civil Aviation:
a global overview
Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula’s attempt to destroy NW253 on Christmas Day
demonstrated al-Qaeda’s evolutionary ability, as well as its continuing interest in
committing terrorist spectaculars against civil aviation. However, with so much focus
being placed on Islamic fundamentalism, it is easy to overlook other causes for concern
and the activities of groups whose branding is less renowned. Dr. John Harrison
highlights key issues in three areas pertinent to the threat against civil aviation: terrorist
group structures; ideologies; and, regions of concern. The critical aim is to recognise the
range and scope of the threats we face in order to prevent attacks being perpetrated
and to develop responses and deploy resources appropriately to address existing and
future concerns, thereby breaking the notorious reactive approach to security.
Terrorist Organisations were full members of al-Qaeda and Top: Colombian
There are three types of terrorist received training, logistical support, and guerilla force
structures: linked, semi-linked, and significant direction from the central
independent cells. There is also a fourth leadership and, as a result, they pose Left: Mohammed
entity, known as lone wolf terrorism the most significant threat to aviation. Atta, lead hijacker
that, by definition, is not a structure. However, because they are linked, they on 9/11. The plot
The latter three are what are typically are also those most easily identifiable by was perpetrated
called “home-grown” terrorists, but the intelligence community. by full members of
that term is less useful that the structural The semi-linked cells can be al-Qaeda.
designation listed above. illustrated by those behind the 2006
The linked cells are like those Liquid Plot. This group emerged from
responsible for the 9/11 attacks. These the local “home” environment and
44 Register now for FREE instant access to ASI online by visiting
www.asi-mag.com February 2010 Aviationsecurityinternational
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