A flying checkpoint is a type of checkpoint involving the set up of a hasty roadblock primarily by mobile truck-mounted infantry units in order to disrupt unauthorized or unwanted movement and/or military activity.[1]
Vehicular and pedestrian traffic that approach with the intent of passing flying checkpoints can be asked to produce identification and submit to a search of their persons and/or vehicle. In some cases, people without proper identification or who arouse suspicion may be refused passage, detained, arrested and/or killed.
Flying checkpoints are used by the American military forces in Iraq and the Israeli military in the occupied Palestinian territories.
According to the Applied Research Institute Jerusalem (ARIJ), the Israeli military established 121 flying checkpoints in the West Bank and East Jerusalem between October 2006 until April 2007. Most of the flying checkpoints are located in the northern part of the West Bank; in particular, the Nablus, Tubas and Jenin governorates.[2]
Palestinians attempting to cross flying checkpoints can wait anywhere between 20 and 90 minutes, and in some cases, even longer. Its psychological impact is greater than that of permanent checkpoints. The restrictions posed by flying checkpoints make it difficult for Palestinians to reach their destinations, to access hospitals, schools and universities.