Association of European Airlines welcome security review

Additional security oversight of transatlantic services has led to significant increases in inconvenience and delay – not only to US-bound passengers but more generally, as airline and airport staff have been diverted from other duties to provide additional resources at the departure gates for US flights.

The incident has also led to an increasing reliance on body-scanning technology, with a number of European states mandating the use of this equipment. These machines could represent a useful addition to the range of detection procedures but need to be considered along with other measures available to identify terrorists. The European Parliament would also need to consider the issue of personal privacy.

The Association of European Airlines, which represents almost all the European carriers serving the US market, recognises the need for enhanced security following this latest threat, but warns that emergency measures should be reviewed and where appropriate replaced by sustainable security policies. Said AEA Secretary General Ulrich Schulte-Strathaus: “Safety and security are absolute priorities for any airline,”. and we welcome the process of dialogue which allows the regulators to tap into our expertise. As governments move forward to enhance and harmonise sustainable security measures, airlines and airports will seek to be included in the consultation so as to maximise security for aviation, and minimise hassle for passengers".

(c) Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. Date posted: 11-Jan-10