Reading Room Document
Random Searches to Prevent Skyjacking
In this memo, the OLC considered possible constitutional problems arising from a proposal to conduct random searches on personal effects and carry-on luggage of airline passengers as a means of deterring and detecting potential hijackers. The OLC concluded that random searches of carry-on luggage, purses, and similar items, not including frisking the individuals, had a good chance of surviving constitutional challenges. Additionally, “random searches” could be held as interim measures pending full implementation of the FAA system.
The OLC's Opinions
Opinions published by the OLC, including those released in response to our FOIA lawsuit