"Airport security checks slammed"

Wednesday, December 6, 2006

Airport security checks slammed
Bahrain - Gulf Daily News

 
STRICTER airport security regulations worldwide have done little to reduce
threats facing the industry, says an aviation expert.

The chairman and chief executive officer of US-based Alacera Arpad Toth
argues the lengthy procedures now facing passengers following the September
11, 2001 attacks have merely increased running costs and diverted attention
away from more immediate dangers.

"Government interference has not easily increased the effectiveness of
security protection," he said after delivering a workshop at the Asis Middle
International Middle East Security conference yesterday.

"Despite large amounts of government funds and passenger waiting time,
little has been accomplished that actually increases aviation security.

"The enormous size of airspace alone defies easy protection.

"There are seemingly limitless ways terrorists or criminals can devise to
attack the security of aviation and airport systems.

"Dangerous objects such as knives, guns, chemicals and bombs can be carried
on airplanes, explosive material with a timer or remote controlled
activation device can be placed in baggage or cargo and airport perimeters
can suffer physical attacks.

"There can also be attacks by airport insiders against access control,
checkpoints for people and baggage."

Mr Toth believes biometric technology, linked to passports, birth
certificates and driving licences, could be used to properly assess the risk
of passengers, such as whether they have a criminal record.

"If you do not have any criminal record you are a privileged citizen and
should enjoy your freedom," he told the GDN.

Mr Toth says airport facilities in the Middle East are improving as
countries invest in the sector.

"It is moving in the right direction," he said.

The expert argues fundamental changes are required within the industry to
improve safety and security to reduce costs.

This, he believes, includes introducing secure, trusted screening of
passengers, baggage and cargo; co-operation between the government and
private sectors; and security plans being included in the planning and
design of new airports.

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