Experts have branded international airports 'soft targets' for terrorists who are focusing on

Experts have called for a worldwide rethink on airport security following the suicide bombings at Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport.

The demands reflect the increased likelihood of terror attacks throughout Europe, with seven countries across the continent considered 'high risk' by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, as a new map highlighting the differing levels of threat reveals.

Indeed, the terror attack in Turkey hit one day after the US State Department issued a travel warning to American citizens about the increased terror threat in the Turkey - and to avoid the south of the country altogether.

The current threat level in Turkey is currently classified as an emergency alert.

And at the beginning of June, the State Department issued a Europe-wide travel alert, specifically concerning the European Soccer Championship currently underway in France and for the Catholic Church's World Youth day in Poland this July.

Ataturk reopened for flights and departures just hours after three suicide bombers killed up to 50 people and wounded 147 yesterday evening, but the incident has highlighted how international airports are now seen as 'soft targets' for ISIS.

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The risk of terrorism threats across Europe mapped according to latest FCO advice. Countries are divided by high threat, general threat, underlying threat - which suggests 'attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers' and low threat

Istanbul's international airport has reopened just hours after up to 50 were killed by three suicide bombers

The State Department specifically told US citizens to avoid all travel to southeastern Turkey near the Syrian border and to stay away from large crowds at popular tourist resorts.

They have also be warned to use hotels only with secure safety measures and exits and to avoid large gatherings.

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office has advised that holidaymakers speak to airline carriers for updated travel information before travelling to the airport.

Their website states: 'There has been an attack at Ataturk International Airport in Istanbul. If you are in the area follow the advice of the local security forces.

'Flights to and from Ataturk International Airport are resuming gradually. Speak to your carrier for updated travel information before travelling to the airport.

'The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria and to the city of Diyarbakir.'

But Turkey isn't alone, seven countries across Europe are classified as being at 'high risk' of a terrorist attack including Belgium, Germany, France, Spain, Turkey and Russia.

The British government has also listed the United Kingdom's terrorist threat level as 'severe', which means an attack on UK soil is 'highly likely'.

Also at a 'general risk' are nine countries including Italy, the Netherlands, Greece and Austria.

Here is the latest terrorism rating and advice from the FCO and the US State Department for European countries deemed at high risk of a terrorist attack:

Turkey

People gather outside the airport following its evacuation after the deadly terror attack

Turkey has long been a favourite holiday destination for British nationals, with more than 2.5million visiting every year, but the Foreign Office has warned that there is a high threat of terrorism, with a number of terrorist groups active there.

The attack on Ataturk International Airport in Istanbul is just one of a number of attacks that have taken place in the country in recent months.

The FCO advise against all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria and to the city of Diyarbakir, and all but essential travel to the remaining areas of Sirnak, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Gaziantep, Diyarbakir, Kilis and Hatay provinces, Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari.

The US State Department has asked all US citizens to be particularly vigilant and issued a travel warning for the country two days before the attack.

'The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of increased threats from terrorist groups throughout Turkey and to avoid travel to southeastern Turkey,' instructs their official website.

France

France is the most visited country in the world, according to UNWT, but currently has a high threat of terrorism

17 million Brits visit France every year for holidays or business, but the FCO has listed the country as at a high risk of terrorism incidents and warned visitors to be extra vigilant.

Due to ongoing threats to France by Islamist terrorist groups, and recent French military intervention against ISIS, the French government has had to reinforce its security measures.

During Euro 2016, stadiums, fan zones, venues broadcasting the tournament and transport hubs and links all represent potential targets for terrorist attacks.

A national state of emergency will remain in place until 26 July, in order to cover the tournament period and other significant events such as the Tour de France cycling race.

While there is no specific warning in place for France, the State Department in the US warns it citizens that 'credible information indicates terrorist groups are continuing to plot possible attacks in Europe.'

They also issued a Europe-wide alert for the duration of the European Soccer Championships currently underway.

The advice for Americans is be on the lookout and to avoid large demonstrations or gatherings of people.

Germany

Every year, around 2,000,000 British nationals visit Germany. Pictured is Berlin's Reichstag

Every year, around 2,000,000 British nationals visit Germany, with most trips ending trouble-free.

But the FCO has warned that there is currently a high threat from terrorism there, with indiscriminate attacks, including in public places visited by foreigners.

The German government has announced that increased security has been put in place as a precaution at public buildings, major events, transport hubs and large public gatherings.

The US State Department advises citizens to be aware in Germany, as per its European wide travel alert issued in May.

'European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations,' asserts the State Department website.

Belgium

Around 1.8million Brits visit tourists hotpots like Brussels and Bruges in Belgium every year, but the FCO has placed it in the 'High' risk of terrorism bracket

Around 1.8million Brits visit tourists hotpots like Brussels and Bruges in Belgium every year, but the FCO has placed it in the 'High' risk of terrorism bracket.

They say that local police operations are ongoing and there have been a number of police raids and arrests, including on 17 June, relating to past and potential terrorist attacks.

Security operations are likely to be carried out at short notice, with Brits warned to remain vigilant, stay away from crowded places and follow the instructions of the Belgian authorities.

Public events and busy public areas across Belgium are likely to see additional security and some public events may be cancelled and some tourist attractions closed at short notice.

American citizens are warned by the US State Department to understand that Brussels was attacked as recently as April and is still under a state of extreme vigilance.

Spain

Barcelona (pictured) is one of many popular destinations for holidaymakers to Spain

Spain is an extremely popular holiday destination for Brits, with more than 12million visiting the country every year.

But the FCO has listed the country as at 'High' Risk from terrorism for two reasons, firstly from ISIS and secondly from the Basque separatist movement.

The State Department concurs with the British on the threat posed to tourists in Spain and asks that they keep themselves aware of the Europe wide alert issued in May.

It is worth nothing though, that the Basque terrorist organisation ETA has been less active in recent years and has not mounted any attacks since 2009, with the organisation announcing a 'definitive cessation of armed activity' in October 2011.

Russia

Russia is less of a holiday destination for Brits, with only 260,000 visits to the country in 2013, but it is considered a risky place to travel to because of the threat of terrorism and civil unrest with neighbouring countries.

Previous attacks have targeted transport infrastructure, including airports, buses, trains and Metro systems.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to within 10km of the border with the Ukrainian Donetsk and Lugansk Oblasts and all but essential travel to within 10km of the border with the Ukrainian Kharkiv Oblast.

They also advise against advise against all travel to Chechnya, Ingushetia and Dagestan and the districts of Budyonnovsky, Levokumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky and Kursky in Stavropol Krai and all but essential travel to North Ossetia, Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area).

There are on-going armed clashes, kidnappings, seizure of buildings and other violent incidents in the Donetsk, Lugansk and Kharkiv oblasts of Ukraine bordering Russia.

Terrorist attacks have occurred most frequently in Moscow and in the North Caucasus.

Workers inspect the widespread damage at the entrance of the Ataturk airport

In the wake of yesterday's attacks, Frank Brehany, Consumer Director of HolidayTravelWatch, has called on the travel industry and the government for more cohesive security information for holidaymakers.

He said: 'The shocking events at Istanbul Airport is an unwelcome reminder that the horrific events of Brussels Airport should have attracted a worldwide re-think on airport security.

'Brussels Airport has now deployed a greater zoning around its perimeter and such extensive action is required at all airports around the world.'

Director of International Security Studies, Raffaello Pantucci, branded international airports a 'soft target' for terrorists - describing them as the 'arteries of the planet'.

Speaking to MailOnline Travel, Pantucci said that by targeting an international airport, terrorists are 'breaking down links' as airports are a 'major way the world is connected'.

He also claimed he believed it was time for airport security to be upgraded across the world.

EXPERT WARNS TOURISTS TO SPEAK WITH AIRLINES BEFORE FLYING Speaking to MailOnline Travel, travel expert at TravelSupermarket, Bob Atkinson, said holidaymakers should consult with carriers before flying. He said: 'Flights to and from Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport are resuming gradually. You are advised to speak to your carrier for updated travel information before travelling to the airport. 'If you have a booking to travel via the city or to the city you should discuss with your airline, tour operator or travel agent what you options are should you no longer wish to travel. 'However most bookings will not be able to be changed or cancelled without a fee. 'For those looking to book a city break to Istanbul then ensure you have read the FCO advice before booking and follow this when you holiday there.' Advertisement

A worker collects loose panels from the ceiling at the entrance of Istanbul's airport

Tourists are pictured returning to the airport as flights resume just hours after the terror attack

Passengers queue to enter the terminal. Police tape can be seen still outside the entrance following the attack

Pantucci said: 'Airports have always been soft targets for terrorism groups. They represent aviation, and aviation represents transportation.

'Aviation is one of the main arteries of the planet, it is how the world is connected. By striking an airport, terrorists are striking the international economy and they know they are guaranteed to get attention - and that there will be citizens present.'

'International airports link the economy and by targeting these, terrorists are breaking the links.

'Last night's attack in Istanbul appears to have taken place near security. It seems the bombers got as far as the security checkpoints and then launched the attack.

'This therefore leaves us questioning whether we need to push security further out. Some places have security even before you get to the airport.

'We need to ask the question whether now is the time to push it out further, some places even check cars when they arrive.

'There is extra expense and it is an inconvenience but we need to think if it is necessary. Aviation is a terror target, so is the threat now so high that we have to push out our security?'

Workers stand near debris from yesterday's blasts as they take a break at Turkey's largest airport

Workers strip panels from the ceiling of the airpot to clear up the damage caused by the blasts

Panels are lifted onto a vehicle. Tape still seals of parts of the damaged airport

Following advice from the relevant authorities Cunard cruise company has taken the decision to remove Istanbul from the planned itineraries on Queen Victoria in July and August.

A spokesperson said: 'The calls to Istanbul will be replaced by Thessaloniki and an additional call to Volos.

'A shore excursion programme for these new ports will be available in the next few days and any shore excursions booked for Istanbul will be refunded.

'We apologise for any disappointment this change may cause, however, our first priority is always the safety and security of our guests and crew.'

Terrorism expert Anthony Richards told MailOnline Travel: 'Any place where there are gatherings of people and where there is no entrance security is likely to be a soft and vulnerable target.

'While bollards could be placed outside airport buildings to prevent vehicular access, individuals with weapons could still gain access to public areas that are not airside.

'If this attack was carried out by Isis these targets might be of interest to them because they are international targets - hence it widens the impact to other 'victim' countries.

'It is also likely that targeting the airport was intended to severely damage the Turkey's tourism industry .

'Intelligence is key when responding to terrorism and pre-empting terrorist attacks but, unfortunately, it can only be part of the answer because intelligence agencies cannot prevent everything. Public vigilance is therefore also vital so that would-be perpetrators are preferably spotted before they even get to the airport.

'An increased visible armed presence might serve as a deterrent against gun attacks, but they may not deter suicide bombers or even gunmen who have little regard for their own lives. Unfortunately, you can never have complete security.'

More than 220 people were injured as the suicide bombers blew themselves up in the terminal

A worker rides a segway past the police tape outside the entrance to the airport

Brehany added: 'I think it is perhaps time for general holiday travel Insurance companies to offer Travel Risk Intelligence, as indeed some do for commercial travellers, so that consumers can benefit from this valuable source of information.

'By governments, airport and commercial outlets taking these actions, this will instil greater confidence in consumers and respect for their inability to be able to fully risk assess security issues for themselves and their families; it really is time to have this joined up conversation on travel safety.

'It is no use simply offering the mantra ''we must not give into terror''; actions have to be demonstrable, and yes, whilst they may add time and inconvenience to our schedules, most people would accept that this is a small price to pay for extra peace of mind but also to frustrate criminal attempts to kill or injure innocent people.'

Workers repair the damaged parts of the terminal building in Istanbul

A spokesman for the World Tourism Organisation said: 'Today we were reminded once again that we are facing a global threat that requires a firm and coordinated response by all governments and the international community.

'Mr Rifai [Secretary General for UNWTO] recalled that safety and security is a priority for the tourism sector and that the sector is being targeted as a pillar of the economy and livelihoods in many countries.

'He called upon the international tourism community to stand by Turkey in facing this challenge and recalled that at times as this 'we need to cooperate and not isolate affected destinations'.

'Turkey is a leading tourism destination and we are confident it will continue to be so; it is now time to support Turkey.'

Turkish forensic police officers work at the scene of the blast. Officials said the attackers detonated the explosives at the entrance of the international terminal before entering the x-ray security check

An air hostess walks over a crossing outside the airport. Workers can be seen stripping panels behind her

MINIMISE YOUR RISK FROM TERRORISM Regularly check the FCO travel advice for the country you're visiting and subscribe to their email alerts

Watch and read news about the country and region

Be vigilant in public areas and places that attract foreigners and westerners like embassies, hotels, restaurants, bars and businesses

Look out for anything suspicious, and if you see anything report it to the local police immediately – many terrorist attacks are foiled by the vigilance of ordinary people

Be clear about any routes you use and have a plan of action to follow in the event of an incident

Try to avoid routines that make you an easier target – vary the time and route of your regular journeys

Keep your mobile phone charged and with you, with emergency numbers programmed in

Consider the extent to which you might stand out from the crowd before deciding to visit out-of-town destinations

Be discreet on social media about yourself and your plans

Inform colleagues, neighbours or hotel staff about where you're going and when you intend to return

Identify places like police stations, hospitals, official buildings along your route where you could seek refuge in an emergency Source: FCO Advertisement

Last night, suicide bombers were seen spraying bullets into crowds of terrified passengers and security personnel before blowing themselves up, injuring more than 220 people and killing up to 50.

Eyewitnesses described the moment a hero policeman shot down one of the suicide bombers before he was able to detonate his explosives, giving holidaymakers a chance to escape and saving countless lives.

In shocking footage that captured the moment, the gunman can be seen running through the international arrivals terminal before falling to the ground - apparently felled by a police bullet - and sending his AK-47 skidding across the floor.

The police officer then approaches the gunman before realising he is about to detonate his suicide vest and running for his life.