MANPADS (Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems) are shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles. Though rare in US airspace, alerts at major airports underscore a serious security concern. This explainer covers how they work, past incidents, and defenses.
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Two known MANPADS alerts at US airports — both false alarms.
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How aircraft and airports defend against MANPADS.
Military and some VIP aircraft eject flares to decoy heat-seeking missiles away from the engine exhaust.
Directed Infrared Countermeasures use laser energy to jam the seeker head of an incoming MANPADS missile.
Temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) around airports during elevated threats keep aircraft away from danger areas.
Airport patrols, cameras, and sensors detect and deter threats before they can get within range of runways.
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