My understanding is that the FAA is the party responsible for establishing security policies and procedures, with the airlines underwriting the costs, and the airports actually implementing the measures. Up until 20 years (or so) ago, no country outside the US had more than one or two airlines, and they were in almost all cases government owned. This situation still exists in many countries today, making the US unique in that two or three parties share responsibility for this mode of transportation. In the next few weeks we'll see and hear various parties pointing fingers and assigning blame, but right now it's time to help the hurt, grieve for lost ones, and reflect on what's truly important in our lives. Speaking for myself, I plan on doing so, including cutting back on some travel, spending more time with the family, (once I get there as I'm still in LA) and not worrying about the small stuff.