BOMB FOUND ONBOARD


The placement of a bomb or other suspicious device onboard the aircraft is not as uncommon as we would like to believe. Suspicious devices can be placed by disgruntled employees, passengers, other crew, terrorist or virtually anyone with a grudge.


Often times the suspicious item found turns out to be accidental in nature, but serious threats to the safety of flight do occur.


When found, unknown items should be investigated and ownership should be established. One of the first steps after finding a suspicious package/item is to ask everyone if that “package” is theirs. Many scares have been avoided by simply asking the right question.


Baggage and boxes are of particular concern. • Prior to loading ANY item aboard the aircraft, establish ownership • Unknown package contents must be confirmed • NEVER accept items delivered to the aircraft from unknown sources • Maintain physical or visual control of all baggage and/or boxes


INFLIGHT SEARCH PROCEDURES FOR A SUSPICIOUS ARTICLE


Inform the passengers what the search will entail and why. Work together as a crew AND include the PAX. Work as a team. If something out of the norm is discovered:


Explosive Device Found If an actual or suspected explosive device is found on board, the following procedure should be adopted: a) Do not touch or move the object


b) Move passengers away from the object and instruct them to keep their heads below the top of the seat backs


c) Portable oxygen bottles, bottles of alcohol and first aid kit(s) must all be removed from the vicinity. Fire extinguishers must be readily available


d) If an immediate landing can be made, the device should be left in place and packed around with items of clothing and any other blast absorbent materials. The device itself must be kept dry but the surrounding material should be wet in order to reduce the risk of fire


Explosive Device – Moving To “Least Risk Bomb Location” (LRBL)


If an immediate landing cannot be made and the aircraft has a designated Least Risk Bomb Location (LRBL), use expert advice and consider moving the device, especially if its position poses a real threat to the aircraft.


It is most unlikely that any anti-handling device will be fitted. Nevertheless, do not open the device but check it can be moved by making sure there is no thread holding it to the aeroplane structure. Do not disconnect or cut any wires or electrical connections


a) Prepare the LRBL by making a platform of hard blast attenuating materials, such as hand baggage, up to the centre of the area ready for the device


b) If the aeroplane is fitted with an evacuation slide, the door nearest the LRLB must be disarmed c) Move object to LRLB without altering its attitude d) Secure object with tape


e) The device itself should be kept dry but pack around the object with water soaked material. Try to fill the entire area with “blast” absorbing materials such as clothing, furnishings, store boxes, hand baggage etc.


Business Aviation & Personal Security 32


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