House committee approves testing of blast resistant containers

House committee approves testing of blast resistant containers    The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed an aviation security bill yesterday that includes provisions to protect commercial planes from missile or bomb attacks.
   H.R. 5121 requires the Transportation Security Administration to conduct a one-year pilot test of blast-resistant containers for cargo and baggage on passenger aircraft to minimize the effects of a detonated explosive device. The committee authorized $2 million for the program and instructed TSA to provide incentives for airlines to volunteer to participate in the test, including financial assistance to cover increased fuel costs.
   Lawmakers urged the administration to move as fast as possible to complete testing    and certification of an onboard antimissile defense system for commercial aircraft while simultaneously stepping up diplomatic efforts to limit the proliferation of new or existing portable missile launchers to prevent terrorists from getting their hands on such weapons.
   The bill also mandates the TSA to establish system requirements, standards and best practices for the integrating biometric technology in airport access control systems. The bill authorizes $845 million over three years for biometric technology efforts. Lawmakers also asked the Department of Homeland Security to develop a comprehensive, risk-based aviation security plan.
   The bill now goes to the House floor. The Senate is also considering air cargo legislation.