Ben Naylor, with a background in Middle East security, views the future of secure passenger air travel in the aftermath of the suicidal highjacks on September 11.
This catastrophe has almost become a recognised blueprint for aviation security planning. Already many airlines and airports throughout the world have introduced new policies and procedures plus enhanced security measures, to reduce the threat of terrorist and criminal activity. However, some airports in the Middle East, Africa and the Indian sub-continent can be more vulnerable to the risk of hijack attempts, due to the lack of technical expertise, inadequate financing and poorly trained manpower, which results in ‘transparent’ security planning strategies. Other anomalies such as the functions of the local work ethos and ‘cultural’ conditions can contribute to gaps in security.
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Some of the positive actions now being taken by the aviation industry on aircraft now include: reinforcing of cockpit doors; covert CCTV, to cover ‘blind spots’ in aircraft cabins; deployment of armed air marshals on some airlines and security awareness programmes for aircrew and cabin staff. At airports, expect stricter security controls at immigration and closer questioning on reasons for travel and destination, intensive screening of hold and hand luggage, closer attention paid to personal searches, more CCTV monitoring and larger deployments of armed law-enforcement personnel.
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Outlined below is a simple effective process for air travellers, to enable them to make an objective assessment when choosing an airline for individual or company needs. Also, consider the levels of security implemented by their preferred airline and consider the following details when choosing a route and airline: how reliable are the security measures at place of departure’ If secure, use a reputable airline. If security is weak, select your choice of airline carefully, compare security measures with a known carrier or against a regional carrier, with a good security and safety record. Your reason for travel ‘ business or pleasure’ The business requirement, that is, the consequences if you are delayed or unable to travel’ Alternative travel options ‘ to enable the trip to be done in another way’ Any personal concerns or individual preferences’ In conclusion, a simple process will aid objectivity and give structure and confidence when assessing the security risks associated with modern-day air travel. A final word: security and safety must co-exist, to remove or lower the threat of highjack and prevent aircraft falling from the sky through mechanical or technical failure.
