27/10/2010

BA Chairman Criticises Airport Security

The Chairman of British Airways is being supported by the aviation industry in calling for a radical overhaul to airport security checks.

Speaking at the annual conference of the UK Airport Operators Association in London, Martin Broughton said that some parts of the security programme are "completely redundant".

He said people should not be forced to take off their shoes or to have laptops checked separately when checking in for flights.

He also added that Britain should stop "kowtowing" to the US every time it wants something done.

He commented: "We should say, 'We'll only do things which we consider to be essential and that you Americans also consider essential'.

"We all know there's quite a number of elements in the security programme which are completely redundant and they should be sorted out."

Representing Bar UK, Chief Executive Mike Carrivick said: "There seems to be a layered approach to security at airports. Every time there is a new security scare, an extra layer is added on to procedures.

"We need to step back and have a look at the whole situation."

The Department for Transport has indicated it is working on new security framework in the coming months.

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said he was aware of concerns regarding airport security, saying it would "remain a continuing challenge to the industry".

He added: "I intend to develop a new regulatory system - one that frees up operators to devise the security processes needed to deliver them in line with EU requirements."

(BMcN/GK)


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