Explosives-Sniffing Dogs OKd for Duty at Airport

Orange County supervisors Tuesday approved $120,000 a year for three explosives-sniffing dogs and their handlers as part of new security measures at John Wayne Airport.

Costs include three new vehicles, kennel construction and dog runs at the airport and handlers’ homes. Sheriff’s deputies will serve as dog handlers, said Alan Murphy, airport director. Start-up costs will be $222,000 in the first year, an airport spokeswoman said.

Two teams are to be on duty by spring 2002, with a third team by next fall, Murphy said. The teams are required under new Federal Aviation Administration rules after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.