Airport security boosted

Security at Malta International Airport has been stepped up in the wake of an alleged failed terrorist attack on a US-bound airplane on Christmas Day.

An airport official stopped short of divulging what new measures were introduced but said that "directives were issued to MIA security staff" even though Malta has no direct flights to the US.

"In view of the sensitive nature of such directives, their contents cannot be divulged to the public," she said, adding that the latest "potential threat" was continuously being monitored.

Major airports around the world have bolstered security with some introducing sophisticated body scanners to screen travellers after the Christmas Day scare when a Nigerian national's attempt to explode an aircraft as it approached Detroit failed after he was overpowered by passengers and cabin crew.

The MIA spokesman said the introduction of body scanners was still at an "embryonic stage" but insisted the airport worked closely with the regulating body for aviation security, which falls under the Home Affairs Ministry.

"MIA receives regular domestic and international risk assessments that take into consideration influential factors within the aviation industry. Following the relevant risk assessments, MIA implements the necessary measures to safeguard safety and security," she said, assuring travellers the security measures in place were "most adequate to safeguard both the public and the airport".

On Monday, the US introduced tougher screening rules for passengers arriving by air from 14 countries, deemed to be a security risk. Travellers from Nigeria, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Yemen and Cuba will be among those facing body pat-down searches and carry-on baggage checks.

In a similar move, UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown authorised the introduction of full-body scanners at Britain's airports while stricter checks at departure gates have already been in place since Christmas.

Italy also authorised the introduction of full-body scanners at Fiumicino and Malpensa, the country's two busiest airports, and stepped up body and baggage searches on high-risk flights.