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.

August 17, 1972