Report Calls Aviation Vulnerable

WASHINGTON — The nation's aviation system remains vulnerable to attacks by Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups who may be targeting noncommercial aircraft and helicopters, according to a government report.

Officials said the report by the Homeland Security Department and the FBI says that commercial airlines are still susceptible to attack despite billions of dollars worth of security investments. Moreover, members of Al Qaeda are believed to be examining and testing U.S. security systems for weaknesses.

The confidential report, dated Feb. 25, reflects what officials have long said: that beefing up security in one sector would inevitably prompt terrorists to target other areas. However, the report is the first to pull the intelligence together in a single package, officials said.

It was given to state, local and private sector officials who deal with terrorism concerns, said a Homeland Security spokesman.

The report was disclosed Sunday by the New York Times.