Washington - Air travelers aren't likely to notice visible security changes at airports, even though the US issued a terrorism threat alert for the month of August on Friday.
CNN Travel reports that the extraordinary global travel alert advised that al Qaeda may launch attacks in the Middle East, North Africa and beyond in coming weeks, and the US government prepared to close 21 embassies and consulates from Algeria to Bangladesh on Sunday as a precaution.
Three sources told CNN that the United States has information that Yemen-based al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula was in the final stages of planning for an unspecified attack.
"U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Terrorists have targeted and attacked subway and rail systems, as well as aviation and maritime services," the State Department's alert said.
Airlines said they haven't changed operations as a result of the alert.
The alert is focused on US citizens traveling abroad, and the State Department suggested that travelers register with its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, also known as STEP, which allows them to receive updated security information.
Airlines for America (A4A), the airline industry trade group, said is monitoring the situation and suggested that passengers could also sign up for travel notifications from their airlines
