IATA calls for harmonization and vigilance in aviation security

who voluntarily provide background data to governments through “known traveler” programs such as those being tested in the US, Canada and elsewhere. In all categories travelers would be screened to a baseline level.

IATA says that the CoF long-term vision anticipates advanced screening technology that would enable passengers to be screened with their bags without stopping, removing clothing or unpacking. Such equipment is expected to be fully available within seven years. In the interim, parts of the CoF vision could be implemented. “There is no need to wait for all the technology to be available to eliminate some of the hassle while improving security. As known traveler programs are developed, they can be progressively incorporated into the process. And re-purposing of some screening equipment can help with improving efficiencies. With traveler numbers expected to reach 3.5 billion by 2015 — up 700 million from today — we need to get started now,” said Tyler.

Air cargo security

In the aftermath of last year’s incident concerning printer cartridges being shipped from Yemen, governments continue to look for ways to further tighten air cargo security. “The future of air cargo security is a multi-layered approach involving the whole supply chain and including both advanced electronic information and physical screening. But we don’t want to see 100 percent screening at airports, which would grind global commerce to a halt,” said Tyler. This year airlines are expected to carry some 46 million tonnes of air cargo which will account for about 35% of the total value of goods traded internationally.

Principles

Tyleremphasized three principles to guide security efforts:

Harmonization: “Aviation is a global industry that is built on global standards. That is how aviation became the safest way to travel. And it is the best way to make it secure,” he said. Airlines are concerned over the proliferation of bespoke requirements by governments for advance data on passengers and cargo. “ICAO and the World Customs Organization have developed recognized standards. If governments don’t use them, we face spending time and effort to meet requirements that do not improve security,” said Tyler.

Tyleralso noted IATA’s opposition to the development of so-called “Red Lists” for cargo. “Requiring certain countries to overcome extreme hurdles to participate in global commerce is the wrong approach. It will only further isolate those states most in need of our support, and for which air cargo offers a path towards economic prosperity. IATA’s Secure Freight program can help states develop the infrastructure and processes for supply chain security to global standards,” said Tyler.

Vigilance: Tyler warned against complacency. “We must not make the mistake of believing that technology or regulation can be a substitute for vigilance as we strive to make air transport more secure. Each has an important role, but over-reliance on either breeds complacency — which is a step in the wrong direction. We must continue to be vigilant. That means working in partnership with governments and the value chain to anticipate and prepare for the next generation of threats in a way that is harmonized among states,” said Tyler

Cost: IATA reiterated the need for governments to bear the cost of security which has risen to $7.4 billion annually. “The threats that we face concern national security. As with any other national security issue, the cost should be borne by national governments,” said Tyler.