Maverick countries should not go it alone over security measures
06 / 05 / 2013
COUNTRIES with poor communications strategies must not rely solely on industry to interpret, raise awareness of or enforce new air cargo security measures.
The Global Air Cargo Advisory Group (GACAG) is concerned that a ‘non-uniform approach’ to the implementation of requirements for new security measures could result in added bureaucracy, additional costs – and non-compliance.
GACAG’s comments are in response to what it sees as a significant increase in the number of go-it-alone countries seeking to implement new security measures.
Michael Steen, GACAG’s chairman, warns: “On too many occasions, the air cargo industry has been left to manage the communication and implementation of new security measures with very little support from regulators.”
Some authorities have been releasing ad-hoc directives “without adequate time for consultation, resulting in regulations that the [rest of the] industry may not be able to fulfill”, he adds.
Much more work needs to be done at national level to ensure that changes to security measures achieve their intended aim – “and do not overburden the vital role of our industry”.
In its position paper ‘communications to industry from regulators regarding implementation of new security measures,’ GACAG says countries introducing new air cargo security measures should follow the requirements of ICAO Annex 9 (Facilitation) and Annex 17 (Security) to ensure the adoption of common standards.
In publicising changes, authorities should use government websites and publications.
