GACAG Paper Presses for Standardized Cargo Screening Technologies
International Civil Aviation Organization members should use standard international codes for screening technologies and protocols, and develop global standards and guidance referencing currently utilized screening requirements such as explosive trace detection and the use of canines, as well as protocols, said the Global Air Cargo Advisory Group in a new position paper.
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“The use of cargo screening technology should be to detect and deter acts of unlawful interference to cargo and mail to be loaded on an aircraft and to improve air cargo security, said Carolina Ramirez, head of secure freight for the International Air Transport Association and chair of GACAG’s Security Task Force. “We recognize the need for a multi-layered approach to air cargo security. We advocate a risk assessment approach including advance electronic information risk assessment based on intelligence to better identify the appropriate screening methodology to be used.”
Ramirez said GACAG encourages screening manufacturers to continue to innovate and provide solutions for technical screening, including screening of Unit Load Devices (ULDs) containing different types of cargo, and said “we believe global standards will encourage manufacturers to make the necessary investment in new technologies.”
Future equipment design should also take into account the air cargo supply chain process and constraints, the paper said, and should also promote the development and approval of appropriate protective and tamper-evident technologies.
Cooling periods, such as holding cargo for 24-48 hours, are not acceptable screening methods for cargo unless supported by other technologies, including x-ray, explosive trace detection, and air sampling, the GACAG paper said. Ramirez also said: “We need standardized training on how to determine the most appropriate screening methodology to be applied for specific consignment types.”