Rapid City Airport Joins Anti-Human Trafficking Initiative

The Blue Lightning Initiative provides awareness training, designed specifically for aviation personnel, on indicators of human trafficking and how to report possible cases to federal law enforcement.

“We are proud to be the first airport in the Dakotas to join the Blue Lightning Initiative. Airports are uniquely positioned to raise awareness and identify and report suspicious behavior,” said Rapid City Regional Airport Executive Director Patrick Dame. “It is important to remember that all forms of transportation can be conduits for human trafficking and to remain vigilant.”

Since January 1, more than 630 employees, tenants and members of the Rapid City airport community have received human trafficking awareness training as part of the accreditation process. Travelers will also see BLI messages in new locations throughout their journey, including pre-security areas and restrooms.

The Blue Lightning Initiative is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Blue Campaign, which is jointly led by the U.S. Department of Transportation and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity is asked to report it to the DHS hotline at 605-347-2423. If you believe you are a victim of human trafficking, please call 866-373-7888.