Airports Authority teams up with DHS to fight Human Trafficking

Friday, January 12, 2024

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority declared on Thursday its collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and its Blue Lightning Initiative to counter human trafficking at its airports. The initiative involves training aviation personnel to recognize and report potential traffickers and victims.

Jack Potter, President and CEO of the Airports Authority, emphasized the global issue of human trafficking and the commitment to address it, particularly within air travel. Potter stated, “By partnering with the Department of Homeland Security and conducting training sessions for airport staff, along with enhancing signage in terminals, we aim to enhance detection and reporting, contributing to the eradication of this tragic criminal activity.”

The partnership commenced at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, featuring a training session and panel discussion for aviation workers. Over 100 employees from the Airports Authority, American Airlines, and other tenants participated. The training will extend to Washington Dulles International Airport, with recurrent sessions to maintain employee awareness.

Director Cardell T. Morant of the DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking commended the collaborative efforts of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and aviation industry partners in combating this pervasive crime.

In the future, all Airports Authority employees will receive a Blue Lightning Initiative quick-reference card containing essential information and resources for victims and observers of human trafficking. Digital information campaigns and signage will be activated across both airports’ terminals, including restrooms, to assist passengers and workers in identifying potential traffickers and reporting suspicions to authorities.

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