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Max Ortiz / The Detroit News Drop in activity at airline counters in Metro's Smith Terminal reflects decline in passengers and heightened security in the wake of Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

Fliers praise Bush security plan
Bush outlines measures to bolster cockpit doors and use National Guard at airport checkpoints

By Paul Egan / The Detroit News

Tips for air travelers        Travelers should understand that airports are under a heightened state of security. Passengers should:    * Confirm or rebook flights by calling the airline or your travel agent before going to the airport, where long lines are likely.    * Arrive at the airport two hours ahead of time for a domestic flight and at least three hours ahead for an international flight.    * Be prepared for more rigorous security checks than in the past. Expect more frequent hand inspection of carry-on luggage.    * Carry at least two pieces of photo identifications with you.    * Do not leave luggage unattended or carry anything on board an airplane for someone you don't know.     Comment on this story Send this story to a friend Get Home Delivery

   ROMULUS -- Mobilizing the National Guard to enhance airport security got a thumbs-up from travelers at Detroit Metropolitan Airport Thursday.
   Waiting in terminals that remained unusually quiet as a result of the Sept. 11 terrorist hijackings, most travelers said they welcome almost any measure that President Bush feels would improve security and public confidence.
   Bush outlined plans to strengthen cockpit doors and use National Guard soldiers to supplement airport security until a new federal plan is implemented.
   The Guard could be backing up baggage checkers at security checkpoints at Metro, Detroit City and other Michigan airports with passenger service by early next week.
   "I like it. I like it a lot," Rob Combs of Howell said of the new security plan. "I would even like it if the federal government took over security."
   Combs, an autoworker who was seeing his wife Rebecca and 4-month-old daughter Elisabeth off for a flight to Tampa, Fla., said he was more worried about their flight than he normally would be.
   "If they check every bag, it's fine with me," he said. "That's why we got here three hours early."
   Stan Gutekunst, who was returning home to Pennsylvania from a business trip to Detroit, said he favors any measures that would reduce his wife's worry about his business travel.
   "I'd just like to see people get back in the air where they belong," Gutekunst said.
   "There's no sense in the airlines suffering. It's not their fault."
   Eulyn Mathews, a Saginaw nurse who was seeing her mother off for a flight to California, said she welcomes Bush's announcement.
   "It's a good idea," Mathews said. "He's trying to protect our safety."
   

You can reach Paul Egan at (313)222-2310 or pegan@ detnews.com.