VZCZCXYZ0011
RR RUEHWEB
DE RUEHMU #0003 0052005
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 052005Z JAN 10
FM AMEMBASSY MANAGUA
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 0352
INFO WHA CENTRAL AMERICAN COLLECTIVE
RHMFIUU/FAA NATIONAL HQ WASHINGTON DC
RHMFIUU/TSA HQ WASHINGTON DC
UNCLAS MANAGUA 000003
SIPDIS
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: EAIR NU
SUBJECT: NICARAGUA: NEW TSA PASSENGER SCREENING PROCEDURES IN PLACE
(SBU) Following the attempted terrorist attack on December 25, the GON has been implementing the new TSA passenger
security screening procedures and is conducting 100% pat-downs for all passengers on flights flying directly to the
United States. On January 4, 2010, IvC!n CortC)s, the Regional Manager for Continental Airlines, told econoff that the
implementation of the new TSA passenger security screening guidelines is going smoothly and that security personnel at
Sandino International Airport are following INAC (National Institute of Civil Aviation) guidance dated December 28,
2009. CortC)s said that the new measures have increased the time required to board passengers, but that the airlines and
security have adapted by screening before the cabin crews announce the beginning of boarding. Post understands that INAC
Director General Carlos Salazar has been in direct contact with TSA regarding implementation of the new screening
procedures. CortC)s said that they will continue to implement the 100% pat-down of all passengers destined for the
United States until INAC directs otherwise.
SANDERS