Case said it was necessary to equip the airports with explosive screening devices because of growing terrorist threats in the Asia/Pacific region and the increased visitor traffic to Hawaii, which is currently enjoying a tourism boom.
''The additional equipment will help to strengthen airline and airport security and the safety of all passengers and airline crews,'' Case, D-Hawaii, said in a statement.
The Transportation Security Administration will provide $3.5 million to Kona International Airport and $2.5 million to Hilo International Airport on the Big Island, said Case, whose 2nd District includes Kauai and the Big Island. Lihue Airport will receive $3.5 million from the TSA.
''Screening in Kona is woefully inadequate and that airport has been crying for additional (explosive detection system) machines for the past two years -- thus far without result,'' Case said. ''The same is true for our airports on Maui and Kauai.''
