Port Authority Looking At JFK Airport Security Breach

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey operates JFK International Airport, which is in Queens alongside Jamaica Bay and the Gateway National Recreation Area. The airport is surrounded by water on two sides - where its runways are located. After 9/11, airport security was boosted and the Port Authority installed a $100 million Perimeter Intrusion Detection System, that included scanners, cameras, and an 8 foot tall fence.

So, it's a huge question how that entire system failed when a jet skier managed to not only scale the fence, but was able to cross two active runways, enter taxiways and restricted areas before being confronted by Delta Airlines workers at Terminal 3. The jet skier's personal watercraft became disabled adjacent to the airport, so he swam to shore, jumped the fence, and then proceeded towards the airport terminals:

Castillo climbed an eight-foot-tall perimeter fence and made his way to Terminal 3. He approached a Delta Airlines worker, who alerted authorities.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is investigating and said it has increased patrols on the ground and in the water .

“We have called for an expedited review of the incident and a complete investigation to determine how Raytheon’s perimeter intrusion detection system — which exceeds federal requirements — could be improved,” the agency said in a statement. “Our goal is to keep the region’s airports safe and secure at all times.”

Castillo was charged with criminal trespass.